Friday, February 18, 2011

Passing

JBL's grandfather is dying. There's not much more I can say than that. Well, maybe I can say a bit more.

Grandy was a playmate for Jon, spending hours creating memories to last a lifetime. Then he was a father when Jon's parents couldn't do their job, taking care of Jon for months at a time. He was a self-made man who inspired Jon to try his best as an adult. He taught his great-granddaughter to play checkers. He made sure he had toys for both girls every time we visited. He talked gardening with me, and asked about my family, listening intently as I shared stories of my own life and childhood.

Grandy is - was - a good man. Humble. Big-hearted. Watching him die, just as I watched both my parents go, is terrible. Mouth gaping wide, shriveled body twitching in a hospice bed. It's all so harsh, not something you can soften in any way.

Grandy, I bid you peace tonight. Go to Mary Evelyn. She's waiting for you. My dad will be delighted to meet you. And once you're there, you can be with us any time you want. We'll think of you with love and joy in our hearts. Thank you for everything.

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