Too fast

The memory of the phone call came back in a flash. “Michelle, is this an okay time to talk?” It was my sister-in-law, Hope. I was sitting in the bleachers, watching Corey’s soccer game. “Of course, “I answered. Her news filled me with dismay. “It’s my dad. They said he has six months to live- liver cancer. He may qualify for immunotherapy, though. I wanted to let you know, in case I seem rather sad at Mom’s funeral.”

I recall sitting in the far corner of the bleachers, repeatedly saying, “This can’t be happening.” Would we be attending two funerals this year?

I also remember him attending my mother’s funeral and commenting on how he appreciated my brother’s eulogy and the different songs sang. He told my sister-in-law that he wanted a similar funeral, sentiments she didn’t want to hear.

Now, this morning, I answered another phone call with the news that her father had indeed passed. “You have to be kidding,” I said. “Of course I’m not kidding,” my brother angrily responded. I don’t know why I responded with those words. Strangely enough, I answered the call at Waterford, the facility where my mother passed away. I had signed up for SAIDO, the training for dementia patients and this just happened to be the day of training. The tears ran down my face as I listened to my brother share the details of how his father-in-law’s health deteriorated so quickly in the past few days. He was out for lunch on Thursday, enjoying a visit with his brothers, but Friday found him at a different state. It was too fast. Another funeral, another burial, and more tears.

Despite the shock at the sudden death, I rejoice over the spiritual legacy Phil left his family and grandchildren. I praise God for the family dinners they were able to enjoy in his last days. I am thankful that I was able to take their family photo the Sunday after my mother passed away and continue to pray that our heavenly Father will comfort and uplift them in their sorrow.