Family,  lifestyles

Saying Goodbye

I’m in Phoenix. They put my mother in hospice on Wednesday so my sister and I flew down on Thursday. She is hardly eating and drinking. Getting weaker, sleeping a lot. In moments of awareness she tells us she loves us. All four of us kids are with her and dad. This image is my dad holding her hand. We are each saying our goodbyes.

Retired. Having fun with photography. Journal daily. Meditate daily. Learning haiku/poetry. Have a love for fountain pens.

15 Comments

  • Tom Dills

    Your photo brought tears to my eyes, Monte. The bond that is so evident…words cannot describe. It’s wonderful that you can be there but while my heart aches, I also know that many good years preceded that moment.

    • Monte Stevens

      My parents celebrated 72 years of marriage this past June. That’s a long time to live with the same person. Not sure death separates or breaks that connection and commitment. Yes many good years to arrive to this moment.

  • Earl

    I think that’s one of the hardest things we face in life, saying goodbye to our parents. I remember sitting holding my mothers hand in hospice. Our thoughts are with you, Monte.

    • Monte Stevens

      Thank you, my friend! Being present to another person is always a gift. My parents are giving a gift to one another as shown in this image. I’ve also got images of everyone holding her hand. Saying goodbye for the last time is difficult. Thank you for your thoughts.

    • Monte Stevens

      Yes, heartache is a good word to describe what’s happening here. This is my first experience with death among parents and siblings. Thank you for your virtual hug!

  • Joe

    Seventy-two years must have brought some wonderful memories to hold on to. I wish you and your family the strength to get through this tough time and cherish the memories she brought to your lives.

  • Paul

    My condolences to you, my friend. I hope that you have lots of wonderful memories of your mother. Peace be with you.

  • Bonnie Moore

    Monte, there aren’t adequate words to write. Those of us who have walked this road know how the world is forever changed at the loss of a parent. May you find some comfort in knowing you and your family are in our thoughts and in our hearts.

    • Monte Stevens

      Thank you, Bonnie! You words are a gift for me. I’m aware you have walked before me in this period of our lives. Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and in your hearts.

  • Mark

    Just reading this Monte and suspect you haven’t been posting for a few days for understandable reasons. Wishing you and your family well during this difficult time.