My childhood friend Bert, whom I haven't seen now in more than 35 years, started developing mental health problems some 30 years ago. He struggled with depression, anxiety and psychotic episodes to boot, to date.
About 10 years ago, he also contracted Parkinson's Disease, which became progressively worse and worse, up to the point where he basically couldn't do anything anymore.
Recently things took another turn for the worse (is that really possible?) and he's now in hospital, since 8 weeks ago. Nothing works anymore except for his beating heart. We all 'pray' for a Merciful and speedy demise.
Bert's wife Elaina and his mother Sammy deserve more than a mere mention here, two very strong women who are doggedly and lovingly looking after Bert. Elaina also has to contend with two parents that are developing dementia...
I can only wish a speedy 'RIP, Bert' for him and his amazing family.
When I knew him for some 12 years a nicer, more soft-spoken person than Bert would have been to find but it appears they always 'get to the nice ones first'.
A few days ago, Bert finally passed away. Thanks whoever.
Note that the names of the people in this real life story have been changed for privacy reasons.
Perhaps G_d is just seeking out some good companions....
ReplyDelete...but I do sincerely wish Bert and his family the best possible outcome.
ReplyDeleteThank you.
ReplyDeleteIt would be a terrible way to 'seek good company', don't you think?
Indeed. But then again, G_d didn't create a Universe of Beings just to escape good conversation.
ReplyDeletePerhaps he has been called to "Elysium"... or Valhalla
from Fagrskinna...
"What kind of a dream is it," said Óðinn,
in which just before daybreak,
I thought I cleared Valhǫll,
for coming of slain men?
I waked the Einherjar,
bade valkyries rise up,
to strew the bench,
and scour the beakers,
wine to carry,
as for a king's coming,
here to me I expect
heroes' coming from the world,
certain great ones,
so glad is my heart