There it was on my work iPhone: she died just a few minutes ago. She didn't die alone. Our hospice nurse was with her night and day since she took a turn for the worst. Her only companion in life- a true friend, was also by her side. She had always been alone: from her troubled past to her abandonment by all who were dear in her life- family and friends. All she had was this one faithful friend and the team of caring professionals from Roze Room Hospice.
I was a part of that Roze Room Team. I was her Spiritual Counselor. She asked me to tell her about Jesus (an echo from her turbulent past). Together we went on a journey of discovering Jesus and His transcendent presence- beyond religion, tradition, and dogma... just that real presence. She would never let me leave without praying with her. Then our ways parted (she left our hospice service for a while and I focused on bereavement counseling). I moved on as did she. When she came back on our service (her dying becoming so apparent). Our paths did not cross.
As I read that e-mail announcing her quiet and peaceful death- a heaviness weighed down upon my heart. I felt the impact of the loss. I was in tears. Then in my contemplative state it came upon me: a strong and deep sense of peace, release, and subtle-joy. I felt intensely connected. I heard her still tranquil voice. "Thank you". I whispered- "you're welcome"
