The death of a beautiful woman, is unquestionably the most poetical topic in the world. -Edgar Allan Poe It should be no surprise I write to honor her . . . It was the first crisp, fall day that we had, Monday, October 16, 2017, we were called to gather at her side. Some of us traveled minutes, while others traveled for what seemed an eternity. She was dying, and we were asked, by her, to come say goodbye. While the goodbye was unspoken, the reality of our purpose in her presence was clear and mindful. Her body was failing at a rapid rate. The reality of her life ending was upon us. We spent that evening loving and laughing, enjoying the company of one another, appreciating and honoring the matriarch of our family. Mom-Mom hugged everyone, smiled when she could, let out a laugh here and there, and even recorded a final snap-chat. She enjoyed what would become her last meal, the flavorful dish of stuffed peppers; a comfort food for her. I learned over the course of two days spent with my family, that we all grieve differently. Some take the lead, emotions hardened to the profession that they have done for so long. Regardless of the patient and the personal ties that connect them. Others avoid, unable to accept what is before them. Whether it was age or the time in my life, I will remember my grandmother's passing more than all the others who passed before her. Being hands on during the process of a loved one dying is exhausting, yet something I will never forget. We cared for her, surrounded her the entire time with love and laughter. When my time comes, I hope I am blessed with the same. In her final moments we honored her life with the most surreal of silences. Final breath taken. Final heartbeat heard. 9:52pm She was at peace. Goodbye, Mom-Mom. The day after, a sun-filled cool autumn day, we carried out the duties of preparing for her funeral. Each of us handling a different task, I was honored to be able to help choose her final flowers. She would have loved them. Eternally grateful for having you with us for so many years. All my love, Traci
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AuthorTraci, a wife, mother of two boys, Special Education teacher, and sole proprietor of Eco Alternatives LLC. Archives
September 2021
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