I ran into a friend and former neighbor this week at the local CVS. She lost her husband of 25 years a week ago. I asked her how she was doing, she "ahhed" and I filled in "medium horrible?", she smiled sadly and said yes.
We talked for a while. She was still very sad, but glad her husbands passing was peaceful and relatively painless. She called it a "good death" and I agree. He had the chance to reconcile himself with the situation for quite a while. He said good bye to his wife and sons, many friends including myself without being in a fearful rush and panic.
I had been grieving for Geoff on my own but all I could think, was how strong this beautiful women is. Strong for her husband at his passing, strong for her sons who have lost their dad and strong for herself.
Death is a test and mark of character for both the dying and the living.
