It is bitter sweet really. On the one hand, the fact that he struggled from death's tight grip, clawing at tubes and mustering some last threads of strength and will to force himself to sit up and swing his legs over the edge of the bed and stand - yes stand for a last time, that was very impressive and a testimony to his strength and grace. He stood there sort of blinking and looking about the darkened hospital room staring, I think, into a host of faces he must of summoned in his mind, but then slowly looking intently to either side of him... into the face of Becky and myself who were supporting him as he tottered on his feet. He looked at us then he stammered out a sweet simple holiday greeting. He was so earnest. Then seeming much more at peace he relaxed as we settled him back onto his bed. That was about 11:50 Christmas Eve night. I think in his mind he had somehow made it to Christmas. He lay there for another 8 hours or so - his breathing slowing and the strong grip of his hands slowly relaxing until Christmas morning he finally let go of my hand. So on the other hand, well... Christmas will forever mean saying goodbye to a man I never said enough hellos to and who left far sooner than I ever expected.
Rest in Peace
Rob
