Those That Remain
I cannot believe it has almost been a year since my grandma on my mom’s side passed away, last Thanksgiving morning. I remember it like it was yesterday, and yet, it also seems like so long ago. It was a cold morning, and Rick’s phone, set on do not disturb mode, rang at about 5 or so in the morning. He got his phone, exited the bedroom and closed the door behind him. He returned and asked me to call my mom, and I already knew. She had been sick for some time, so when the news came, there was relief, shock and hope, but mostly fear and anxiety over her eternal destination , among a slew of others. Can you relate? The day was altogether odd. Zachary was sick, so instead of coming home after school the day before, he stayed at his mom’s house, and we did not see him for the holiday. Our neighbors that had planned to join us for breakfast did not call or show up. And at the two other gatherings we dropped in and out of, everyone asked and said roughly the same: I am sorry for your lo...