Short time? Its the longest thing we ever do
I know what you mean though.
With my uncle passing it has made our family so close again and re-built some bridges that were broken many years ago between certain members of my family. They say everything happens for a reason and this i feel was the reason my uncle was taken away from us. I would prefer him to be here now rather than have the family together, but at the same time, he is not suffering anymore.
It puts everything in perspective and i have an email from him that i will share with you all as it has the best wording i have ever read. Basically a few months before his death, we held a fund raiser for him and his family as we didnt know how long he had and wanted to help them get away for a nice holiday.
Here it is...(it still brings a tear to my eye)
"Subject: Thank you doesn't say enough
You know there are defining moments in people's lives that provide them with an epiphany.
Yesterday I believe I experienced such a moment.
I was completely oblivious to the arrangements being designed around my family and me. We were not aware of the weeks of preparation, the phone calls, discussions, contacts and indirect contacts being sort. We were not aware how far out the word had stretched, how far they would have to travel to join the event and for those that could not join but contributed nonetheless.
When I received a visit from my beloved brother Chris, his partner Melissa and their son Luca yesterday I had no idea as to what was about to be bestowed. It came after a week of numerous raw visits to and from hospitals, consultants and heart rending decisions to be made. The outcome overwhelmed me……overwhelmed my family! The rare tears have flowed… and they continue every time I read the comments book signed by some of you at the Crown on the 24 February. I know there were many more there who didn’t get the opportunity to sign it but the sentiments are the same. This was that defining moment that made me realise just how emotionally rich I am and that there is an army of family and friends rooting for me and my family. We are not alone - quite the opposite. There is a duvet of human affection embracing us - protecting my family from the relentless journey we find ourselves in. It honestly could not have come at a better time.
Now I ask a little something of you all, and this applies even more to those of you who have been almost daily companioning me along this road . You need to stop the pain you are suffering………. I see it in your eyes and hear it in your voices. I remain as ever determined to deal with my condition and your support helps me to meet the challenges. Last week was the only time I thought I was mentally weakening, probably because I was physically tired after all the travelling to and from appointments. What I realised yesterday was like an adrenalin shot in the arm and has renewed my spirit. Believe me it is true as I cannot explain it any clearer………...
………..You know, there is a God… and I don’t care who I upset here……. He was created by us and can only exist because of our love for each other and the love you have shown to me. He is the divine glue between us.
May he(we) bless you all and your families.
Selwyn, Theresa, Lauren Jake and Megan xxxxx"
