The sun came made an appearance this weekend and it was glorious.
Day after day of rain got to us all. So when the perfect weather coincided with a couple of free days, it was on EVERYONE’S mind and seemed to be the one and only thing talked about.
But I have to say while enjoying the warmth on my newly freckled nose, all I could think about was this article, The Gift of Charles, reported on CNN.
I used to work as a hospice social worker and my husband is still deeply involved in hospice work. It is something that means a tremendous amount to me.
I haven’t worked directly with clients and families for a few years but the beautiful article and video reminded me of how much I learned while working in hospice. The ability to be a part of a family’s most private moments of love and transition and the amazing wisdom shared with me were worth more than anything I could give to them.
Almost every family had a story of their lives together that they wanted to share–an opportunity to reminisce, laugh, cry, and forgive. I listened and was grateful to have that privilege.
Reminded of the love that the Thompsons have for each other and especially shared with Charles, it made me appreciate my family laughing and playing around me even more. Made all the better by that brilliant sun.
8 Comments
A beautiful article and a beautiful post Katie. When my grandfather received hospice care, I had such a high level of admiration and respect for the care providers. They were truly pivotal in creating an environment of peace, love, & calm- in a time that could’ve been just the opposite (and of course still was, on the inside- but it was hard to let that manifest on the outside when we saw the level of love and care that my grandfather was receiving)… It brought such a tremendous amount of comfort.
{hope you’re still enjoying some sunshine :)}
This is a beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing.
I’m glad you’ve had some wonderful weather -- sometimes it’s good to just know the sun is still there :)
Wonderfully poignant story. I always feel more optimistic when the sun makes an appearance
I’m in awe of anyone who has the patience and heart to work hospice.
A really beautiful article. A friend of a friend was recently admitted to hospice and passed away after a bout with tongue cancer (at age 29) and I sort of experience their hospice experience from afar. It truly is a transitional place and its inspirational to see people treating it with an uplifiting attitude instead of just dread and despair.
Hasn’t the weather been AMAZING lately!? Apparently it’s supposed to get into the 20′s tomorrow. (oh celsius….not sure in farenheit). SO HAPPY!
Katie, I don’t know where to start. I so admire you for being involved in hospice work — people going through that time are so helped by hospice workers and volunteers. I certainly know what a difference those people made to my family when my grandmother was passing. You so inspire me. I’m off to read that article.