A Spiritual Dialogue

In different languages between cousins

While conducting our genealogy research, my family and I decided to visit North Carolina and speak with family members.  While there, we were informed that a great cousin was in a nursing home, and that we should visit her before she left this earth for her heavenly home.

Upon entering the nursing home, the nursing assistant was welcoming and pleasant.  She greeted us at the door and walked us to Cousin Louise’s room.  During the five-minute walk she explained what she thought we should know about Louise and how she is getting along.  As we entered the room the place was silent.

Louise was just lying there with the television was on. She appeared relaxed and at peace with herself. This is the kind of peace in Christ one reads about in John’s gospel where Judas (not Iscariot) was speaking to Christ. Louise had certainly provided assistance to many during her career, now she is being provided for in a peaceful way.

My wife started a conversation, “Hello Louise this is Sheila and how are you?”
Louise only stared at us with a blank look on her face, as if to say ‘how are you also’?

“Do you remember me? I am your Cousin Sheila from Milwaukee.”
Louise just blinked several times.

“We came all the way from Milwaukee to see you and even brought you some flowers.”
Louise started to chew like a baby cutting its gums.

My wife continued, “This is my husband Joseph.”

Louise’s blinked her bright eyes several times as if she wanted to say a word; however, she remained motionless and stared as if into space.  She appeared relaxed and continued chewing as if something sweet was in her mouth. This reminds me so much of Jonathan’s words in the book of Samuel regarding the taste of honey, the enlightening of the eyes and how it relates to pleasure.

I remembered that Louise had a stroke some time ago and was placed in this nursing home several months ago.  She could not speak, and at times just her jaws moved.  She was being fed through intravenous artificial hydration since she could not eat. However, she seemed at peace within herself.

I watched as Sheila softly touched Louise’s silvery grayed hair. Louise finally gave a slight smile while chewing her gums.  “It’s nice to see you Louise; we just had to come by and visit with you.”

A faint smile came across her face. She was experiencing great joy and I could feel it. She could not move a muscle and it would have been a miracle if she had. This was what we hoped for since she had been in the nursing home.

The one-sided verbal conversation continued. Sheila eventually stated, “We have to leave now Louise.  Visiting time is over and we will come back again to visit with you.”

Louise continued to chew and look at the ceiling.  My wife leaned over and whispered something in her ear. Then she stroked her silvery gray hair a final time.  “Have a good night Louise we are leaving now.”  We each then prayed for her while holding her hand. She seems so relaxed and winked her eyes with a faint smile.

I reached over and held her motionless right hand and squeezed it. As we left the nursing assistant stated, “Louise must like you guys, because she was smiling when I stopped by and checked on her!”

I sincerely believed that Louise has God in her heart.  She was a pioneer for her family, she held up the blood-stained banner for Christ. She provided for her family and many others until she was hospitalized. Eventually, God will receive her into His glorious kingdom where she will experience eternal joy.

Writer: Joseph S. Spence, Sr., is a graduate of the University of Maryland.  During his military career as a logistics management officer, he also voluntarily served as a Lay Reader and Eucharist Minister after obtaining a license from the Bishop of the Armed Forces.  In that capacity, he assisted the chaplain and served communion to soldiers, attended religious services with soldiers in his command, and visited the sick and prayed for them. Currently, he volunteers and assists disabled veterans to overcome the pain and grief they are experiencing. He lives in Shorewood, Wisconsin, USA.

4 Comments to A Spiritual Dialogue

1. Mr. Joseph Spence, Sr., is a delightful writer who pens depth and feelings into his story. His words of comfort and love for another human being are heartfelt and uplifting, giving a peaceful, completed feeling to the reader. The emotional bond between people stated here is something that one can carry within for a lifetime. Wonderful story with a beautiful layout and picture of
   Mr. Spence, Sr. which adds a lovely personal touch to this article.

   Rhoda Galgiani, Poet
   Long Island, NY
Rhoda Galgiani on January 10th, 2009

2. This is a beautiful piece. It reminded me of my days at working in a nursing home. So many people are placed in there and forgotten. A visit even a few minutes mean so much to the elderly. Many have paved the way for others so let’s not forget their labor of love.
   An excellent write and moments to cherish. Great article.

   Mary Ann Duhart, Poet
   Stockton Ca
Mary Ann Duhart on January 10th, 2009

3. This article that Joseph wrote was truly beautiful as the two books of his I have read. In this article I see him as the wonderfully caring and compassionate person that I knew he was. I feel that their compassion will bring her peace and comfort and something to reflect on long after they have left.

   Christina R Jussaume
   Freetown, MA, USA
Christina Jussaume on January 10th, 2009

4. This is a very inspirational article that should touch everyone’s heart. I can remember when I visited my love ones in the nursing home. The love of God, family, and caring healthcare providers made a difference in their disposition as they spent their final days on earth. Being a nursing assistant myself, I can relate to the connection between family, nursing assistants, healthcare professionals and spirituality in lives of the elderly. It truly does make a difference. I really enjoyed the article. It blessed my spirit. You are a imaginable, creative, innovated, and gifted writer. Keep up the great work.
Vera D. Nathaniel, Pastor on January 12th, 2009

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