161 - Ending Days

What is a “good death?” The hospice movement has opened our eyes to the possibility of a pain-free, gentle surrender, supported by the people who love us, comforted by familiar surroundings. And for the family, time for goodbyes, time for acknowledgement.

One Hundred Sixty-One

Ending Days

Together in hallowed moments,
Speaking words of eternity,
You hold us close as we hold each other,
Returning the circle to its start.

We bless You for this privilege
Of goodbyes and memory,
Storing our time stopped actions
To proffer future strength.

How to let the end begin?
You linger near, wiping our tears,
Shoring us up with hand touches
That comfort and magnify.

Gather us round
As we share the transformation.
Final moments of shalom:
Wholeness of life and love secured.