The day, though touched with pain and the refusal of her physical self to wholly respond to her bidding, was filled with a multitude of joys, laughter and moments that etched the soul. Long conversations, quiet exchanges of twinkling eyes and the comfort of being in a moment with someone that can only be shared with a common foundation of love and respect were shared, given and shared again.
From time to time reality would step in and require some small action. A token given to buy a few moments more from fates demands. Calls and hasty plans were made for last minute meetings and through it all life bubbled and laughed with infectious joy brightening the hearts of all.
Time wore on and far too soon it came to an end. Hugs and kisses were exchanged; promises were made then each of us rushed into the night hoping to beat fates demands.
A moment passed, just an hour or two and we returned for a brief good night, hoping for another taste, no matter how small, of the delightful moments just had. But fate had closed its hand and no more tokens would be accepted. She slept quietly, her face peaceful, her breathing calm and steady. With hopes for one more tomorrow quiet touches and whispered words of love were left for her to hear and we turned to tend briefly to our needs.
Another moment passed, we caught our breath and sought one more draught from that well of shared joys but fate had played its final hand and when we arrived she no longer had the strength of body or heart to reach out in kind. Long minutes stretched into longer hours, and the day drug on. Friends and family left gentle words each in turn reaching out with their hearts to hers. Calls were made and the wait began for the final page to be turned and the book closed.
One more time we whispered our goodbyes. One more time we left promises to return. One more time we hoped for tomorrow and left for a moment to tend to life.
The morning dawned and with it came a call. The words were kind, the tone gentle … she had passed beyond the edge of her world.
Fate had taken its prize and we were left on this side but though she was gone in her place was peace. She now rested from a life lived well and we moved forward with treasured memories her love etched into our lives … at peace with her rest.
