I woke up this morning to a knock at my bedroom door, It was my host mother (Astird) she informed me that my mom was trying to reach me, but wasn't able to because I was asleep. Immediately I felt my stomach drop because I knew what It was going to be about. When I got on Skype my family and extended family and even my sister (who is living in Scotland) was on Skype there, we were all gathered around at my grandparents home. I was expecting to hear that my Grandfather had passed away, and that they wanted to make sure I knew. But he hadn't, he was right there along with everyone else, he was able to share with me how proud he was, how proud he was of me for taking this step in my life, by going to a foreign country and spending a year away from home. I told him how happy I was that I made this decision as well. His words have always meant so much to me, and they stay implanted in my heart and always will, so when he told me how proud he was it meant the world!
My uncle took the computer in the other room and shared with me the reason for the urgent call. He told me that my grandpa didn't have much time left maybe a few days, and the tears began to roll down my face. I talked with my dad after this and he told me a little more about the whole situation, he said that grandpa might not be here in the morning. I broke down crying, I told my dad to take me into my grandparents room where my grandpa was so that I could see him, he was in the middle of his nightly ritual just like any other night. I watched him get situated in bed, and then all the family came into the room, at that moment we all witnessed this incredible man pass away in peace. My grandma was holding his hand with her head on his chest crying, everyone was watching as he took his final breath. This is the way it was supposed to happen, it is the way we all wanted it to happen, with the family gathered, and him lying comfortably in his bed, it was the most peaceful thing I have ever witnessed in my life. Quiet and calm. Beautiful. I am more then grateful for the way it happened.
I will never forget the memories I have with this man, he shared his wisdom, his talents, his love of working with hands, and most of all his love. He changed my life and so many others in the best of ways. He was caring, thoughtful, compassionate, loving grandfather.
Grampa Fred, you will be in my heart forever, thank you for always being there for me, for caring for me, and loving me. I love you so much, we all love you so much. Rest in peace.
Moments likes these help us appreciate the things in life that we have now in the present, they help us to remember old memories that are stored inside. This moment now, allows us all to care for one another, to take a deep breath and realize that this man has been relieved from pain. Even though it is hard for us to say goodbye, it is time for us to let him free.
He will be remembered! He will be talked about for generations to come! He will be with us all forever!
