My father has now been taken to a Hospice. Days, perhaps a couple weeks, are what remain. While his body is in very bad shape, his mind remains sharp and he’s entirely aware of what is happening. When my mother-in-law passed away last month, she was not aware of what was happening for the last 10 days. Now I’ve seen it both ways – knowing and not knowing – and while it may be easier on the dying to be unaware, there is no doubt that it is easier on the family if the dying person is unable to communicate. To contemplate your own impending death is a fearsome thing especially when you literally don’t know from moment to moment if this is your last. For someone like my father, who has always liked everything laid out and squared away, this has been a bit of a torment.
Fortunately, Our Lord came to my father in the form of the Blessed Sacrament and upon taking it, my father became very much at peace. We know what is coming, and with faith in our Savior, we are ready to do what is fitting. 2009 certainly hasn’t been the best of years, but one must remain aware that others still have it worse and, of course, the trials we are given are a gift from God.
I ask all to pray for my father and my family that we will be at peace and in all things completely trusting in God.
When the Lord knows that good health is necessary for our soul’s welfare, He sends it to us; and when we need sickness, He sends that too. Sickness makes us discover who we are.
— St. Theresa of Avila
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