The End Comes

Last night about 6:30 (March 16, 2015) I went to spend a few moments with my friend for whom I have been caring several years now. I had been unable to reach him by phone, and I wanted to make sure he was doing OK. He didn’t answer my knock, so I went on in using my key. I found him on the kitchen floor. He had been gone from this life for several hours – now home in Heaven with other members of his family.

I made the calls – an ambulance came, and  then the police. The Police contacted the Medical Examiner’s office. That office made the decision to release the body to the Funeral Home, and they came. The whole process took about five (5) hours. Just standing, waiting, talking with the various personnel, and answering the same questions several times, I began to wonder if my friend was aware of all that was going on. I don’t know the answer to that (though I think not).

It did give me opportunity to spend a couple of hours with two Ft. Worth Police Officers. They stayed the entire time, even though they did not have to. We talked about life. . .and death. We talked about relationships with Christ, and what happens when one dies. It was a valuable time. I wondered if my friend was aware that his passing allowed a witness to be shared.

After writing this I will prepare the arrangements according to his plans.

I knew he would die. We all do. I just didn’t think it would be this soon. I needed more time – wanted more time. We all do. Now the difficulty of walking on without him begins. And one day, no matter that we affirm our expectations, I will unexpectedly join that band of those “gone on.”

The question is not when, or how, or where. It is, rather, are we prepared for the departure that is on the agenda of each of us? My friend was ready. I am ready (but not today, of course). Are you? I know we don’t expect it will be today. . .but, it could be.

We are easily reminded that life is brief. Let me know if I can lend any assistance in your preparations.