David

It was a quiet day at hospice. There were five residents in the house—and only David was awake. David was an interesting man who spoke openly. He said he lived a good life, was well liked, and had no fear of dying. He had loved his work and had been accomplished in his field. 

He spoke of his daughter, who lived in another state. She had not visited him, since she was in the process of getting her daughter into a good first-grade school. This was important to him, more important he said than having her at his side. 

David had a long-term girlfriend who was uncomfortable with the concept of death. She didn’t want to be a part of his passing. This isn’t uncommon: the process of dying can be heartbreaking for loved ones. To witness, to wait, to feel—the love, sorrow, guilt and despair is undeniably painful. It can be like a rollercoaster ride, and although the hospice team supports both resident and family, not everyone chooses to be involved. 

The power of being a presence 

I spent time with David. Just being with him. 

One time I found myself dropping into a deep meditative state. I could feel his spirit and could sense energies around him. Prayers automatically poured out of me. When it was time for me to leave him, I left in an altered state. 

The next day, around 10 in the morning, I was working with another client when, in a split second, David’s spirit came to me. It lasted only a second, yet I knew it was him, and I could sense him thanking me.

Moments later, I called to check on David. He had passed at 10 that morning.