An Awesome Goodbye

[Merlin the Elder]

Not every death has to be looked at as sad. Sure, those left behind will miss their love one, but the cycle has a beginning, and an end, and that cannot be changed.

My aunt, who I never was able to see enough, said her goodbyes last week. She told her oldest that she'd had enough, and was ready to go. She decided she wanted her wake while she was still around. She gathered her kids, grandkids, and friends around her—a few at a time, of course—so that she could visit just one last time. Her sister—my mom—couldn't travel to be there with her, but they talked on the phone last Thursday and Friday both.

Over the past few years, Audrey had dealt with a heart attack, lung cancer, and a few other things, but hung around to see her grandkids grow up. At 87, though, she finally decided that she wanted to go ahead and die. As her daughter sat with her last Saturday, she would periodically wake up. My cousin said that at one point, Audrey actually said "I'm still here?!?!"

She died peacefully Saturday afternoon, in her own bed.

Just as my dad did nearly 4 years ago, she died on her own terms, with family, at home. In these cases, at least for me, I have nothing to grieve for. I do miss them, but I also am thankful that I had the opportunity to be part of their lives, and that they were part of mine.

Having the chance to say "goodbye" makes all the difference in the world.

I don't know what, if anything, follows our lifetime on this planet. I do know that how I treat others defines me.

Goodbye, Aunt Audrey... say "hi" to Uncle Elmer...

[angusmacinnes]

I amtruely sorry for your loss lad.

[Merlin the Elder]

Thanks, Angus, but it's not a sad occasion...not really. She was happy.

[angusmacinnes]

Thats good then.   

[Bob of the Lake]

Thank you for sharing about your aunt, Merlin. I know you will miss her and for that, I am sorry. But as you say, it is not entirely a sad occasion and for that, I am glad. I can only hope that when it is my time to go, I have the fortitude, wisdom, and grace that your aunt displayed at her end. You and your family will be in my thoughts.

Goodbye, Aunt Audrey. You are an inspiration.

[Rani Zemirah]

I'm glad she had the chance to say her farewells, and to let her family know that she was ready to move into the next phase of her existence.  How wonderful to be able to release the physical with no regrets, and nothing left unfinished.  Your aunt sounds like a truly remarkable woman, and I'm glad you are able to celebrate her life, and it's impact on your own, with such joy! 

She sounds like someone I would have enjoyed getting to know... 

[The Rabbi]

I have always held to the beleif that life is but a step in a very long journey and as we step into the next step of our journey it is not a sad occassion but one of joy. Your Aunt is a remarkable lady as she has left a very strong legacy for the next generation. I am glad that she was a part of your lifes journey and hope that her strength only grows stronger on the next leg of her trip. A toast to you Aunt and Gods Speed.

[LadyFae]

(((HUGS))) to you Merlin.  Thank you for sharing this story about your aunt. 

[Merlin the Elder]

You people are the greatest! Thanks for helping me celebrate Aunt Audrey.

[Jade Sapphire Emerald]

It's nice to hear about the losses that aren't so much seen as a loss, and the ones where everyone was ready. I would say that I am sorry for your loss, but I think a silent virtual Kirby embrace is all that's needed.

(>^.^)><(^.^<)

[Rowan MacD]

  A candle for Audrey and and a hug for you, Merlin.
This was inspirational.   
  May we all have such a good life and a such a good ending.

[irish]

Merlin.....
Your Dear Aunt knew what SHE wanted, that is for sure!
(I must admit, I had to smile when her remark was..."I am still here?")
You are in my thoughts!
irish

[Capt. Morgan]

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die
~ Mary E. Frye

I celebrate your Aunt and her life.

[Merlin the Elder]

That was beautiful, Captain. Thank you.

[Lady Kett]

What a lovely story, Merlin.

Aunt Audrey will live on in many memories, I'm sure.