ITS PREDICTABLE

 "Jack”, eighty-three, was diagnosed with liver cancer three years ago.  Then, just recently, he learned that his cancer had spread.  Jack took it in stride, like he has done his entire life.  Jack has always lived his life to the fullest while accepting whatever comes along. 

Jack’s wife was on our hospice program two years ago.  They had been married over fifty-seven years.  Jack has two children, who are both very involved and supportive.  His daughter is staying with him for the duration of his illness. 

I did not recognize that I had been there before until I stepped into the home.  But a few miles back when the majority of the drive was residential, it turned into greenery and agriculture.  It was such a peaceful and relaxing drive.  The power of nature is so soothing.  Jack had a very long, dirt driveway that wound about within the greenery.  It was amazing. 

But then, Jack also was amazing.  He totally accepted his status, his poor prognosis with peace.  He spoke about the reality of dying stating, “It is all okay; it is predictable.”  The way he spoke had me wishing I could write music to his harmonious words.  His words, to me, belonged in a song.  Maybe, hopefully, one day they will.

ITS PREDICTABLE

 

He lives on twelve acres

surrounded by green foliage,

tall, magnificent trees,             

               and peacefulness. 

 

The moment I walked inside,

I knew I had been there before.

It was two years prior when we admitted

his wife to our hospice program.

 

It was just one month ago though,

when he heard his cancer had spread.

He accepted it like he has always done

when life guides your journey.

 

“I’ve lived my life to the fullest

without any regrets at all.

It all comes around in the end.

               We all pass on.”

 

“I will go catch up with my wife”.

Then laughing, “If I can find her.

Life is predictable

               It is always predictable.”