The End Game

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“Angels clapping” - Bernadette declares to the hospice nurse. I am not surprised - Bernadette prayed for that. Bernadette’s expressed wish for her husband, five children, their spouses, and thirteen grandchildren - hell - everyone - was they go to heaven. Her focus was eternal happiness for all.

Bernadette, my big sister - was just two years older than me - It seemed like quite a difference at 10 and 12, when she was a foot taller than me. She apologized numerous times for chasing and beating me with a broom at that early age. I may have apologized once, for pushing her, to the point of breaking, a window in the living room. I don’t think I ever apologized for setting her hair on fire.

During the last three years, while in the nursing home, she always started a call with me- “Is this my dear, wonderful, loving, talented brother?” And she ended the call - “That’s life in the Big City”. I think the last uttering was just a couple weeks before her crossover.

I remember in a recent talk, Bernadette declared that I always plan for something and then make it happen. Yes, I have been fortunate to accomplish my plans. I am very grateful for that… and for Bernadette’s positive, encouraging, loving comments.

Now, in this End Game, I am learning that planning the future is overrated. Being in the present is where it all happens. I wish to be quiet about the future, suck up the present and let the universe guide my remaining years, until I again embrace my loving sister Bernadette.

Cloud light - Stairway to heaven