I KNOW

I meet so many amazing people in my hospice work. Now and then, I will meet someone with whom I instantly can relate. "Gladys", ninety-five, suffers from cardiac disease. She is independent with the majority of her needs. Two of her children live nearby and are very supportive and attentive to her needs.

Gloria has five generations of family living locally. Gloria bragged about her two young great-great-grandsons. Between sharing her life stories, Gloria would have me laughing so hard. She had a great sense of humor.

Gloria was realistic regarding her recent, slow decline. She was keenly aware of her needs and did not hesitate to utilize the support of her loving family. She spoke openly about her life today and her end of life wishes. She had no fears or concerns. Whom I saw today, was naturally who she has been her entire life. Real; accepting; embracing and funny.

She is such a prime example of how we all cope in life so individually. She was real and accepted her life as it truly was; embracing the love that surrounds her. Her thoughts about life and death made so much sense to me. Meeting Gloria today made me think that my end of life may not be much different than hers. If I do struggle a bit, I hope to think about Gloria to give me the needed strength. Thank you Gloria for all that you have given me today. I am truly blessed to have met you.


I KNOW　

She's had a good, long life.
She embraces all that she has.
Five generations of family;
many still living nearby.

After ninety plus years,
her health is starting to decline.
She is needing a bit more help,
although still can manage alone.

She is as sharp as they come.
She is aware of her increasing needs.
She is realistic and understands
using witty humor to get her by.

If you ask her about any fears,
she will convincingly deny.
"I am looking forward to going.
          "It is now my time."

She'll easily smile while sharing her thoughts.
These are her truths; her wishes.
"I don't want to get old.
          I don't want to outlive my life."

Our age is based on years we have lived;
although being old or young, is how we feel inside.
It is a mind-set; attitude about life experiences.
I so understood her words; her outlook on life.

I see myself, at the end of my time here,
feeling and acting much the same as she.
It is my truth; my perception about life.
I believe; I know,
         I so truly know.