He took his last breath at about 5:25 PM. He was aware of things until the very end. No unconsciousness, no coma, he knew what was happening. He closed his eyes and started "singing" - at least a mumbly humming sound. He opened his eyes again - looked at his mom and asked if he was dead. She said no. He reached over for his son. Took a few deep breaths - and went onward to his next chapter.
I got there about 45 minutes later or so. I played catch with his boys (ages 7 and 5) out in the yard when I first got there. They seemed like they just needed to do something else. They were talkative, energetic, normal. Oblivious to the fact that their lives changed forever today. We went inside and downstairs to his room. His body was still there. I read some scriptures and we grabbed hands around his bead - and prayed. Not for him. For us. We committed him to the Lord for His personal pleasure and service.
It was really sad. His boys crawled up next to him in bed - one on each shoulder. Kissing him - whispering to him - crying. Almost too close for comfort. They asked kid-like questions... like do his ears still work - can he see me - does he feel it when I touch his arm?
They brought him gifts of stuffed animals and baseball caps - hoping that their presents for daddy would bring the usual response.
They didn't.
It's a sad day.
7 comments:
Even in the midst of so much pain, the end is always hard even though it's a release.
And we always see what matters most.
praying and weeping for those boys.
"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
-John 16:33b
On a different note, incredible sermon on Sat. night!
Derek,
I forgot to chat with you about this on the phone today. I'm so sorry to hear about this. Praying for the family..
Love,
Your Sis
I usually don’t post in Blogs but your blog forced me to, amazing work.. beautiful …
Hello. And Bye.
Brian died today.
Looking back can you share how this event might have changed you, Derek.
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