It's my birthday. Yup. I'm the big 2-2, officially at 11:03 pm. But as I celebrate the anniversary of my birth, the other side of the spectrum rears its ugly head. My grandpa died today. We all knew it was coming. He's had Parkinson's for a few years and it came to the point where it was almost cruel to just keep him here. His mind was mostly gone and his body was deteriorating, so it was just a matter of time. He was in his 80's. He lived a long, full life and knowing what we know of the next life, it isn't such a tragedy. It's still hard, though. He slipped into a coma last Tuesday and never really regained consciousness. I'm glad I went to see him yesterday. The last words I said to him were "Goodbye, Grandpa." I really didn't think it was going to be the official goodbye, but it was. He didn't know I was there, but I'm glad I got to say goodbye.
My Grandma has been taking care of him mostly by herself since he got really bad. You'd think she'd see him as a burden, but a while ago she put him in a home just for the weekend and she really missed him. I know it's going to be really hard for her. For all of us. My eyes are tearing up just typing this. They had been married for, I think, almost 58 years. Now that's devotion. I want that some day.
We got the call that he was gone at about 5 or so and we headed right then to be with Grandma. I'd never seen a body that hadn't been embalmed or so close after they passed. It was strange to look at him and know that he has taken his last breath. I know that he has been release from the prison that has been his body this last while. I know he's probably looking down and wondering why we're all so sad. But now I can remember him as he used to be. Whole, joyful, and full of life. So, goodbye, Grant Blackhurst Morrell. I'll see you when it's my time. I love you.
Anika. Once again, I am so sorry. I remember when my Grandpa passed away and how hard it was to say goodbye to him. Even though he wasn't conscious, I know he heard me and I know that he was there. Just like your Grandpa. He was there and he heard you say goodbye, and he knows how much you love him. This isn't belief, this is fact based on faith and what we know of the life to come. Love you, tons.
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