AN INDEPENDENT SOUL

I met “Stella”, a ninety-five year old, who deeply touched my heart.  Stella has been very independent her entire life as never married or had children.  She has always lived alone allowing her the luxury of being strongly independent.  Stella’s actions in her home reflected that strength in her. 

When the hospice nurse and I asked her a few questions regarding paperwork, Stella knew exactly where to go to produce that paperwork.   Stella took a fall a month ago and has been weak since that time.  She struggled a bit walking with her walker, but it did not stop her from doing what she had to do during our visit. 

Stella knew she was becoming weaker and needing a bit more help this past month.  She so struggled with needing assistance from her niece, “Cathy”, who lived nearby.  This dependence triggered Stella’s thoughts about dying and the afterlife.  Stella’s spiritual words were deep from her heart and soul.  She was comfortable sharing them with me, which made them even more powerful.  

She sees death as a recovery from becoming dependent.  Her strong faith gives her peace and hope.  I wish you all the best Stella.  God bless you.

AN INDEPENDENT SOUL

 

The moment I walked into her home,

I was immediately drawn to her.

She embraced her life so fully,

knowing she always had complete control.

 

She’s never been married or had any kids;

which allowed her, for decades, to be on her own.

She took a fall just four weeks ago.

A catalyst that so completely;

               stole her autonomy away.

 

Weakness has made her less active;

making it more difficult to walk.

Her appetite is all but gone.

She eats because she knows she must.

 

She has always been so independent.

She’s never experienced anything else.

Her strong Christian faith, though, gives her hope,

               “God always knows what to do.”

 

She has no fears about dying

as feels it will save her from needing support.

“If God gives me life, or takes it away,

               I will be okay”.

 

Her biggest fear is dependency

as she’s never needed others to care for her.

As I was leaving, she turned and softly said,

“I so want to peacefully just die in my sleep.”

 

Truthful words from a very determined woman;

               An Independent Soul.