Whenever we’d say goodbye, he’d say, “Until that time…”

The call came at 2:16 am in the wee hours of Halloween. Our beloved dad and father-in-law took his last breath at 2:05. After being on hospice for three months, his body slowly declining, the suffering lingered.

Until that time when it was the right time for him…when his soul ascended to join the other spirits of Allhallows Eve.

He lived to be 100 years old! And he was a great man with a gentle heart. As much as the tears will come, we are comforted knowing that he is at peace and no longer in need of morphine. There is a whole host of family where he’s headed now, so he will be welcomed with open arms and reunited with loved ones who have been missed.

So, we are going to allow the feelings of sadness and grief to be felt. We will find comfort in precious memories. But most importantly, we will honor and celebrate this wonderful man who lived for over a century.

I remember a poem that is written by my lovely friend, Selma Martin. It’s one of many that stood out from her beautiful poetry book, In the Shadow of Rainbows. After reading her words again, out loud for my husband to hear, we both agreed that this poem is perfect for his dad:

When Death Comes

When death comes
I don’t want to look back
lovelorn, empty, frightened
– Oh, no!
When death comes
I want to be led into eternity
curious, full of joy
knowing the world I leave
is better for the love I gave.

© Selma Martin

These words are my father-in-law. He was loving, nonjudgemental, a social butterfly, and his heart was full of joy! His life was not devoid of heartache and loss, but he always moved forward in the direction the silver lining guided him.

Thank you, Selma, for this profound poem that resonates with our family at this time. 🙏🏻

Thank you, Dad, for the love you gave. We were fortunate to have you as our father. You will always be in our hearts. ❤️

Until that time…when we will meet again…we love you! ❤️

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com – All rights reserved.