I can tell, when I first enter her house, that the news from the doctor isn't good...
She has traveled a rough road over the past eight months
so many
tests
treatments
procedures
other alternatives
too many to count
I've never seen anyone quite like her...
courageous
funny
tough but soft
ha! sometimes too independent for her own good
I've told her how much I admire her, haven't I?
how she inspires me
how she has taught me so much about
dignity
perseverance
endless hope
maybe just pure will to survive
Her deep green eyes are not as bright today
they seem faded distant
Were they like that yesterday?
Why didn't I see it?
She struggles unsteadily over to the sink, holding onto the counter to get there,
"These dishes have to be washed, so much cleaning to do."
"Here, let me do them. I have some extra time today," I take the dish towel from her hands. Our eyes meet briefly over the exchange--and she smiles. We both know without saying a word. It won't be long now.
"The doctor says he won't let me suffer," she mentions it casually.
"No, and I won't either." I won't. I will do whatever it takes and fight for you.
"Don't leave me, Teri."
"I won't leave you, don't worry." But can I do it?? Will I be strong enough to
watch her
fade slowly away
take her last breath
close her eyes and dream forever?
As I began to scrub furiously at the pots, pans, forks, spoons, whatever I can get my hands on, the warm clear water washes and splashes...
Yes, I wish I could wash it all away...
your fear
pain
apprehension
loneliness
No, I can't take it all away but I know
Someone who can...
*Shouting they shall mount the heights of Zion,
they shall come streaming to the Lord's blessings:
they shall be like watered gardens
never again shall they languish.
Then the virgins shall make merry and dance,
and young men and old as well.
I will turn their mourning into joy,
I will console and gladden them after their sorrows,
and my people shall be filled with blessings.
Come, take my hand, my friend
Together we will stay close
Together we will journey
Together
we embark
on
your
road
we embark
on
your
road
to
Everlasting Life
(Click on the link below)
* Canticle of Jeremiah 31: 12, 13, 14
photo courtesy of google images
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