STILL AROUND

Hospice’s Bereavement Department follows families thirteen months after the death of their loved one.  The Social Work Case Manager will call the primary bereaved a few days after the death as well.  I had a slow day today as there were surprisingly no admissions.   When I have time like today, I reach out to my fellow Social Workers asking how I can help.  I was given seven bereavement calls to do for them. 

On each patient, I read the admission note, because likely I have admitted many of them.  Reading my admission notes does trigger my memory about the patient and family.   Spiritually, we all believe what is right for us to believe.  I can’t prove my belief, and no one else can disprove it.  We all believe what gives us support. 

The story this daughter told me was amazing.  It totally validated my belief system of afterlife.  I was taught that heaven was miles away beyond the galaxy.  Doing hospice for so many years, I hear so many beautiful stories about loved ones letting their family know they are okay after the death.  It supports my belief that heaven is right around us on a different energy level.  Be it true or not, it does support my spiritual belief.  In the end, does any of us really know?  No one can truly say.  I just anticipate, and do believe, it will be what it is suppose to be.  Goodness for all, I hope.

STILL AROUND

 

In wanting to support our families,

we make a condolence call

a few days after the death

to offer compassion and sympathy.

 

I met this family a few months ago

when Mom was first admitted to hospice.

Her three daughters were so devoted to her

as all shared caring for her as she needed.

 

With this incredible family bond,

along with their strong Christian faith,

I knew they would be alright as they believe

that even in death, Mom will always be nearby.

 

“Your Mom will let you know

in a way that you will understand

that she is okay;

                    that she is still around.”

 

“While at the church making arrangements,

we asked each other about using her middle name.

Mom has always hated her middle name.

What is the proper thing for us to do?”

 

“At that same, exact moment,

a large, adjacent door slammed shut;

interrupting and startling us all.

Mom was loudly telling us what to do.”

 

Who we are is so not just our body,

but our essence lies in our heart; our soul.

Mom has powerfully let her daughters know

she will always and forever continue to still

                    be around.