07/03/2024
[NOTE: This was given to me, Katy, to post for Charles Eldon Julius when the time came. He wanted these to be his last words to you. Please share this with whomever called him a friend.]
End of the life.
It was a good run but the finish line kept getting pushed further and further away. And with each new step towards the elusive finish, but this quiet living is hard. First I couldn’t eat, then I couldn’t drink, though I could talk, then my worst fears took over. I couldn’t take care of myself. I always pictures myself dying in a spectacular way. Crashing a bike at 120 mph. Maybe falling off a ladder or tall roof. You know, something that would make a good story. Unfortunately, instead of going out with a bang I’m going out without even a good whisper.
When I was first told I had a progressive cancer I didn’t think about death. I didn’t even wonder what it was like. When they told me I had no options left to stop the cancer or to even slow it down even, I began to think about death. I’ve spent most my life believing when we die we’re just gone. But I’ve also always left the door slightly ajar to the possibility that there was a more reasonable god picking and choosing like the guards unloading prisoners at Auschwitz.
Or, because energy cannot be created or destroyed, we became part of a force that protects and holds the entire universe together.
When we die, can we see our friends and loved ones? Can we affect the living world? Can we hang around where we want or will we have to zip off? (So I came up with a plan.)
With these possibilities, and many more, I decided death is a last Grand Adventure. Can I let my friends know that I’m ok? What will I see? Where can I go? So folks, I want you all to share my adventure if you can. Think about the last sunset. Was there something special about it? When you were driving, did you feel a sudden peace? Did you suddenly laugh at something for no reason? Did you feel a hand on your shoulder?
If at all possible I will give you a sign. And if at all possible I will be at every memorial, service, or wake. I will try to make your life better.
Now, if you’re reading this, I’ve already set off on my final Grand Adventure. I do hope we’re all having fun.
Goodbye, I love you all.
[Time of next Grand Adventure: July 2, 2024, 9:30pm]
