My father passed away on Friday with me, my sister, and my mother at his side. I feel blessed to have been there and glad I was given the gift of closure that so many others are never given.
Throughout this journey there are a few things I’ve learned that I thought I’d share with others. I’m sharing only my point of view and would not be surprised if other’s views are different.
I’ve learned that when someone is dying:
1. Don’t deter them from talking about death—let them speak. Don’t make them pretend that what’s happening isn’t really happening. That is not helpful for them–even if it is helpful for you.
2. Don’t make them talk about dying if they don’t want to. Open the door for them and if they choose to go through it, then go through it with them; if they don’t, then at least know you gave them the opportunity.
3. Don’t say they were wonderful if they weren’t. I believe they will know this isn’t true and it will be more upsetting than comforting. It’s also inauthentic. You don’t have to complain about what they did or didn’t do, and nor do you have to pretend that everything was perfect. Just let them know you love them.
4. If they apologize, don’t shush them. Say thank-you. If it’s true, let them know you forgive them.
5. I’ve learned that it’s hard to watch someone you love die…and it helps when you believe they will be in a better place.
6. I’ve learned that even when you know someone is dying it’s difficult to know what to say.
7. Finally, I’ve learned there are many ways to grieve and seldom do any two people do it the same. Know this is okay, and don’t judge the process of others–just stay tuned-in to your own.
I guess this will be the last post on my father. Perhaps my experience will help others who have gone through, or may go through, something similar in the future. In the end I realized that the most important thing I needed my father to know was that I loved him. Not surprisingly, that’s what he needed me to know too.
Good-bye dad, I love you. You will be sorely missed.
Challenge: Share your love with your loved ones while you have the chance. Speak it directly and don’t assume they know. If you have any unfinished business with a loved one, begin to clean it up. You will be thankful you did later.