Goodbye, Grandma J.

[primsong]

When I went to see my grandmother, she simply lay as if asleep, though her breathing was labored. I read to her, knowing the 'ears are the last to go' as they say... scriptures, some that would be familiar, some that were about the ending of life and the hope of heaven. Talked with the cousins who were also there, so many of us coming by and going all this past week.

When it was time to go I could *see* her spirit flickering around her body, I *knew* there was another Presence in the room, waiting to see her Home. It was not a surprise, to hear she had passed away later that night, after everyone had said their goodbyes. My almost-grandfather had finally quietly told her it was 'okay to go.' She died within an hour of being given this gift, his permission to leave.

Spent today sorting family pictures with my aunt and mom, putting together something for her service this coming week. It's sad, but at the same time, it's *okay*... We will miss her, but I *will* see her again, and this is the best gift of all.

Comments

[maidoforange.livejournal.com]

My deepest condolences to you and your family, (((({Prim))))).

[primsong.livejournal.com]

Thank you - she was the last of my grandparents... another generation moves forward a notch... it's always so strange, because you know it happens and that it happens to everyone, but it's still strange, like when you grow up and everything seems smaller.

[estellye.livejournal.com]

This brought tears of both sympathy and joy, dear Prim. My thoughts are with your family as you say goodbye to your grandmother for the time being, but to be a witness to such grace is a blessing indeed.

That you were sorting photographs for the service reminded me of how I spent the day after Mom made her transition. Although we were so sad, that time with my family sharing our memories has itself become a cherished memory.

[primsong.livejournal.com]

Thank you... It's true - I heard some of the craziest family stories as we went through them, things I'd *never* heard before, and we found pictures we'd never seen of great-grandparents when they were younger, etc. It was a blessing in itself, and so hard to choose which ones to put up we liked them all.

[lothithil.livejournal.com]

((((Prim)))) My heart is with you and your family. I pray that you find all the strength that you need. Bless you my friend.

[primsong.livejournal.com]

((((Loth))))) - thank you so much, I'm just grateful it wasn't one of those sudden/surprise ones, and that most of our family lives nearby.

[iorhael94.livejournal.com]

{{{{{Hugs and Prayers}}}}} That must have been so hard being right around the holidays...that was very cool how you said you could sense God's presence in the room...I sure wish I had been there with my Mom :( I am very glad you were able to be there.

[primsong.livejournal.com]

We were afraid she'd pass on Thanksgiving - she only missed it by a hair as it was. Thank you, (((((Deb))))) - may all of our loved ones rest in peace.

[eldritchhobbit.livejournal.com]

My love and prayers go out for you and your family. *hugs*

[primsong.livejournal.com]

Thank you, dear lady. *hugs back*

[mrs-pippin-took.livejournal.com]

Awwwww Prim sweetie!!!! I'm giving you my deepest condolences to you and your family. The way you've written it is so sweet and emotional. Especially when you wrote about the part of the "other spirit's presence". And when your grandmom got permission she was free to go. I'm certain she is going to watch over you now.
(((((((((((Prim)))))))))))))

[primsong.livejournal.com]

Thank you ((((V)))), she was so miserable this past year, it is bittersweet as we will miss her but I'm sure she's so much happier where she is than stuck here with a body that didn't work anymore. It's a hard thing, dying - we only do it once, after all, and there's no one to really show us how.

[siradaono.livejournal.com]

LOVE to you and yours.

[primsong.livejournal.com]

And to your family as well - thank you, ((((Ada))))

Sorry to hear..

[jimbo-baggins.livejournal.com]

Prim,
I haven't been in LJ for months and it seems I am missing lots of news, both good and bad.
I am very sorry for the loss of your grandmother. Your visit was very spiritual and a blessing for you and her.
The "gift" of God's promise of eternal life through his Son and our Saviour is what gets us through these moments in life.
Peace to you.
Jim

Re: Sorry to hear..

[primsong.livejournal.com]

Thank you, dear ((((Jimbo)))) - in many ways it's just a relief to have it done now, especially knowing that she's okay and with Him. It makes a huge difference when you know they aren't truly gone, just 'somewhere else' for now.