Every now and again we experience the loss of a loved one – at least the physical loss when their body gives way to a higher wish - a wish to return home; free of the limitations of their brief yet wonderful earthly experience.
As did occur last evening, a dear fellow traveler bid his farewell. When I received the phone call informing us of his passing, my daughters and I had just finished a prayer for his healing and peace of mind for our extended family as they began gathering at his bedside.
On the surface, many would think that the prayer had not been answered.
After all, when we pray for healing, we typically do not see death as one of the many miraculous ways that healing sometimes occurs.
On some level, we know we are not our body, we know that death can, in fact, bring great peace and frees the soul to embark on the next leg of their journey.
Yet, we love so much and so deeply and have grown accustomed to connecting with our loved ones in physical form. Grief is real, pain is real, loss is real.
We process and heal and we miss our loved ones who have passed on before us.
In spite of my sadness, my heart was full with the knowing that Duane was at peace. He was free of pain, worry, and fear of being dependent on others to care for him.
I felt his smile, his hugs, his laughter. I saw him dancing with his daughter Carla, my best friend and cosmic sister. I saw his hand placed on his beloved wife’s heart, our beautiful Mary for whom I have so much love.
I felt a sadness in my heart but the truth was that I also sensed an overwhelming connection to his joy in being released from a body that was no longer serving him. In my heart, I knew he chose to go and was happy with his decision.
I also saw my father, Magan Kumar Pathik, my majestic Indian prince who has traveled the heavens for the last 20 years, welcoming Dwayne home.
Today, I am grateful to have known Dwayne. He is a gentle soul who loved deeply. And, certainly, I am reminded of how precious our time here is.
Love deeply, laugh often, and forgive everything so you can live each day in the present.
After all, it is the only thing we really have – today – here and now. This moment is the only true reality. So live it, embrace it and embody your essence, your gifts – this is the grace we share with others.
I’ll see you soon Duane and we’ll dance again.
Namasté, Anita
p.s. thanks for the poem this morning! Wow, an 8 page poem – you crazy man!
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