My father died on June 18th of this year - he was just shy of 87.

[Pendrench]

In the days leading up to his death, he was mostly bedridden and non-verbal.

On one occasion, however, my mother came into their bedroom and he was sitting up in bed with his arms out, as though he was trying to reach something. When my mom asked what he saw, he said: "Dad and mother"

Another time, not long after this, she heard him (seemingly) having a conversation with his Aunt Mary (she lived with him and my grandparents, when my dad was a child).

Finally, one morning after my dad was moved to hospice, the nurse asked if we knew anyone named "Billy". Apparently the previous evening, they heard him talking to someone by that name. As it turns out, Billy was his best friend who died in a boating accident just after my parents were married.

Two days later my father died.

As a Christian, it gives me some comfort to believe that just as our family was gathered around his bed during his last moment, there were others whom he loved (already deceased) who were there to welcome him into the afterlife.


But this is just a belief....it's not proof, nor should it be seen as proof.


It could simply be that as my father's brain was dying, it brought to the forefront memories of those people closest to him who had already died. And that he didn't really see my grandparents, his aunt, or his best friend...he was just remembering them.

So what do I think? What do I believe?

I'm not sure.

I imagine that there are some who feel strongly one way or another, but I also imagine that there are others like me who are not sure.

In any event, to all who believe, to all who do not believe, to all who question, and to all who are not sure....I wish you ALL well and peace.

Tim