It’s hospice day… the day of the week when I dress in black as a member of the clergy and go visit people who are dying, giving them messages of love and hope.

If they can talk, we talk. About anything… what a wonderful family you have… how much better to be home instead of a hospital… don’t be afraid… yes, I did die once… this is what it felt like.  Or we can talk Giants baseball.  It all depends.

I pray for them, the ones who want prayers.  Out loud.  I want them to hear the words.  And as I end my prayer, I pray “may whatever is supposed to happen… happen… without pain or suffering for anyone.”  They nod.

For those who want the Lord’s Prayer, I say it.  In Spanish even… Protestant or Catholic.  And before I leave the room, whether it is a devout believer or atheist in the bed, I tell them all… “Oh yes… if you happen to see any bright lights in your dreams, follow the bright light.”  They nod again.

peace…….ag