Before my dad was released from the hospital for the last time, my family took turns staying with him overnight. I looked forward to my time with him. In all honesty, I mostly enjoyed just being in his presence. Throughout his whole journey he emulated peace and just being in his presence a feeling of peace was evident. I loved having that time with him.
The nurses came in and out frequently to check his vitals, medications, iv's, etc. As the night nurse came in prior to a longer span of checking on him (to allow him time to sleep), she noticed as my dad laid on his bed that his legs were uncovered. She kindly offered to cover them, to which he declined and responded that he wanted to pray.
Just hearing that made me feel endeared to him. Here was my father connected to all of these machines, extremely weakened body, sick with cancer and infection, and he wanted to pray. I was very touched for his longing to communicate with the Father.
Once the nurse left, my dad slowly made his move to sit up. I offered to help him up, but he wanted to do it on his own. He informed me that he felt really dizzy and wanted to go really slow. I watched him carefully as he went to a sitting position. I then laid back down (I wanted to give him his space so that he could pray).
I was surprised to hear movement. As I looked over, my dad had shuffled to stand up and proceeded to kneel by his bedside. My eyes welled up in tears. I kneeled by my bedside. My dad began praying out loud. He blessed my mom specific to her needs. He blessed each of his children, son in-laws, and grandchildren each individually and specific to their needs. He then blessed a few neighbors suffering from trial. Then, concluded his prayer.
Not one mention of himself. Once he finished, I thanked him for his example and told him I was touched by him kneeling in his state. He said, "Oh Kimmy, I do that out of respect for the Father."
I was touched to tears and feel forever blessed by his faithfulness.
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