so,this usually radical lady posts a letter about her dying dad.

[w8liftinglady]

to be published Friday.If it's wrong,I don't care.It help eased a small part of the pain.Peace.

to the editor...
My dad is dying.I know that scene has been played millions of times before,but when it happens to you,it’s as if your pain is unique.Through the tears,you try to make sense of his…and your…suffering.
A few quotes from long ago have helped me.Maybe they will help you,too.

“If we have been pleased with life,
we should not be displeased with death,
since it comes from the hand
of the same master.”

Michelangelo

“When you were born,
you cried and the world rejoiced.
Live your life so that when you die,
the world cries and you rejoice.”

Cherokee Expression


________________________________________
"When I die if you need to weep
Cry for your brother or sister
Walking the street beside you
And when you need me put your arms around anyone
And give them what you need to give me.

I want to leave you something
Something better than words or sounds.

Look for me in the people I've known or loved
And if you cannot give me away
At least let me live in your eyes and not on your mind.

You can love me most by letting hands touch hands
By letting bodies touch bodies
And by letting go of children that need to be free.

Love doesn't die, people do
So when all that's left of me is love
Give me away."

Merritt Malloy

Here's hoping my dad goes peacefully.Thank you for sharing this pain.It helps.

[plcdude]

1. My thoughts

are with you and your Dad for the peace that will surpass all understanding.

[Midlodemocrat]

2. W8liftinglady. When my mom died,

a friend sent this to me. I got great comfort from it. I hope you do as well.

I AM NOT THERE

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 DIAMONDS GLINTS ON SNOW,

I AM THE SUNLIGHT ON RIPENED GRAIN,

I AM THE GENTLE AUTUMN RAIN.

WHEN YOU AWAKEN IN THE MORNINGS 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.

[w8liftinglady]

3. that is beautiful.Thank you.

[Midlodemocrat]

4. You're welcome. And, I'm very sorry.

My mom died suddenly, but my dad lingered for a bit. Neither was any fun, but the lingering, what you are going through was much harder in some ways.

My prayers and best to you.