A MOMENT

　

My cousin Jack died from Lou Gehrig's Disease six months ago. His disease progressed rapidly as he died two and a half months after his diagnosis. It was so difficult seeing him decline so quickly, but, in the end, it likely was best for him for it to be over.

My dad died fifteen years ago after a short bout with cancer. My dad lived to be 94 years of age, which is more than many of us ever get; but still, it was much too soon. Age does not matter when it is someone you love.

Both Jack and my dad had great senses of humor and I was so very close to both of them. When we all got together there was always a lot of joking around and laughter. The two of them loved each other so deeply. It was wonderful. I know that they are together again. That thought fills me with such beautiful peace.

I was driving to a patient's home this afternoon. The route drove me past the town where Jack lived. Grief hit me so suddenly and so hard. I was attempting to process my thoughts when the song "Do You Realize" came on the radio. That melody has always had the perfect words for me to sing to my dad. I always know my dad is near me when I hear it.

I had a thought today that our loved ones never truly leave us. When we think about them and feel their presence, they are truly right by our side. The sadness of missing both of them hits strong, but gratitude also comes knowing they were in my life in the physical world and they are also in my life in the spiritual world. I so strongly believe that we all will be truly and fully together; yet again one day.


A MOMENT　

While driving in my car early this afternoon
it happened without warning.
A moment of sadness suddenly struck
while I was passing by where you used to live.

My eyes quickly filled with tears.
My heart gripped with sorrow
mourning the loss; without you here.
"Jack; you always would make me laugh."

A few miles later, that special song came on the radio.
It always immediately connects me to my dad.
Those perfect words; that spiritual understanding.
A reminder to me that he is always around with his love.

Another strong moment of sadness,
even though it's been fifteen years.
"I miss your unconditional love;
          I miss your jokes."

You and Jack were always so close.
I so know you two are forever together
telling me to continue to laugh; to enjoy life.
That insight gives me pure peace.

Thoughts of the two of you bring a smile
as humor was always a common theme.
You both are teaching me to continue to laugh
as that is what life, and hopefully death, is all about.

I so miss both of you and truly know that
sadness will hit again I am sure,
but hopefully for only a moment;
          for just one moment.