Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Quiet

Though some might be surprised, given my proclivity for writing about very personal issues, there are some stories I choose not to write. It's a funny thing, especially when you are a supporting player in a particular story line: though aspects of that story may belong to you, you still can't tell them.

My grandfather passed away today. He was a complicated man. My father, his son, is also a complicated and deeply loving man.

For my grandfather, peace finally. For my father, I can only hope that when the rays of spring time sun first reach his cheek, after this cold and dark winter, those rays warm him thoroughly and lift his spirit to feel once again the joys of living.

14 comments:

AA said...

Sorry to hear about your loss. I will be thinking of you!

Anne and Whitney: Up, Down and All Around said...

Ellen,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your grandfather. Please let your Dad, Mom and all of your family know that we are thinking of you guys!!!!!!!

Ellen said...

Thanks, Amber. Thanks, Laura.

I finally talked to my dad late last night, and he sounds good, at peace. My grandpa was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer nearly three years ago. He defied the odds by living this long. He lived on his own terms, in his own house until the end. There's a lot to be thankful in that.

Sarah, Andy, Murdoch, and Deucey said...

Ellen - I am so sorry! We are all thinking of all of you guys and we wish we could be there.

Anonymous said...

Ellen, I am so sorry about your
Grandfather dying...also my
Aunt and Craig's Great Aunt Virginia
McCauley died Feb 11..
Cherish your fond memories of
your Grandfather..as I do of my
Aunt...
Feb 11 was the Feast of Our Lady
of Lourdes..I am sure she is embracing
these dear relatives of ours and
they are enjoying the joys of Heaven.
God bless you. Love, Aunt Kathy

Unknown said...

You are in my prayers, Ellen!

Ellen said...

Thanks, Sarah, Aunt Kathy, and Therese. Your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated.

Rebecca said...

Ellen, I'm so sorry to hear about your grandfather. He must have been a resilient person. I pray that you and your family find comfort, peace, and happy memories to reflect upon.

Ellen said...

Thanks, Rebecca, your words are so thoughtful.

Cottage Dweller - Barbara said...

My condolences to you and your family. Will there be a memorial service?

Michelle said...

I'm sorry to hear about your grandfather; your family is in my prayers to find some peace during this time.

Ellen said...

Thank you, Michelle and Barbara. My family feels enveloped in an enormous hug.

Unknown said...

Ellen,
We are so sad to hear about the loss of your grandfather. I know he was an important part of your life.

Sydney said...

So sorry for your loss. Prayers and hugs!