Roy M. Griffis

Roy M. Griffis

Storyteller

Departures and new realities

My mother passed away at 1240 am on Friday, April 25.

It was a mercy, as she had been struggling with dementia for years and had barely been able to recognize anyone in the final months.

My brother and father’s hands cradling Mom’s in those last hours.

Physically, she had been in good shape until the very end.  My father worked very hard to keep her in their home of over 30 years and he cared for her with great attentiveness and love.

My brother moved to within two miles of their home, and he visited her almost every day, giving my father some breaks and looking after them both.

His dedication was commendable and heroic.

I was able to be there on her last day.  She was on hospice, and the end was clearly near.   I sat beside her, holding her hand and reading to her from the New Testament (Mom was a quiet believer) and Psalms.  Thursday was my father’s birthday, and we brought the cake into her room and sang “Happy Birthday” to Dad.  There was a tear in my mom’s eye when we finished that, so perhaps some bit of her was still with us.

Now, I’m adjusting to the new normal.   For a little while, at least, I no longer fear receiving phone calls or text messages at random hours:  those were rarely good news.

I am glad my mom is free from her suffering and confusion.  By the grace of God, she and I had a terrific relationship.  I had no doubt of her love for me, nor she of mine for her.  There was nothing unsaid, and no regrets and for that, I am very grateful, indeed.

I do not use the term “grace of God” lightly, and when I see that grace, I am humbled and moved to honest gratitude.

 

12 thoughts on “Departures and new realities”

  1. Griff, I understand the deep sense of loss. I KNOW (from your writing) that you are a believer, and am so glad your mom was as well. We have a hope and an assurance unbelievers lack. God bless!

  2. We were giving one true Mom in life, and that love is eternal in our hearts.
    It’s wonderful you had a great relationship with her and it sounds like she had a beautiful life with her husband and sons. Your memories will continue to grow strong and the glory to it all is you will meet up again in heaven. Blessings to you all ? ❣️

  3. Stanley Saunders

    Just finished the last book in your Hands Of Men series, then read your blog regarding your Mom. Both touched me. Having lost both my Mom and my Mother In Law, I can sympathize with your lost. Very much enjoyed your writing and look forward to reading others. Please be safe and know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

    1. Captain America

      Thank you for your kind words about my writing and my mother, sir. Comments like this are one of the unexpected delights of being a novelist.

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