An Honor To Be Present

By Rev. Angela Silva, President of the SRF, Inc.

A few months ago my friend‘s dad came to live with her because he had gotten very ill suddenly and was dying of cancer. His stay was only two months but it affected us all in a way we’ll never forget.
I had never been that close to someone who had come to the end of their life knowing that they would be leaving the planet soon.
Each day was a gift, each moment cherished.
He reviewed his life, memories and pictures. He remembered with many of the staff and students who visited with him each day. He laughed and cried and released a lot of emotional energy.
He told me he wished in his life he had not been so stubborn and was easier on himself and others. But over all, he had no regrets and was happy he lived to be seventy-six.
I watched as people around him visited him and shared good companionship with him. His daughter and sons lovingly caring for his every need, his every wish.
My teacher once said the worst disease for a soul to experience is loneliness. This he did not experience. He was never really left alone, someone was always by his side. He was able to let go and go in peace.
The night that Chuck left his body I was privileged to see him leave. As I was walking out of the room I turned to look at him one last time and I saw little lights rising towards the ceiling, I was in awe. I knew I was witnessing something so incredible; I felt so honored. That night Chuck’s body did die, but he, as spirit, moved on to his next step.
There is a process in letting go. Maybe it’s some old pastime hurt and regrets. Or maybe it could be something about ourselves we don’t like. Why not start now and clear these issues, there’s no time like the present. We are spirit and we can be free.
Have fun!

Rev. Ang