I knew we were planning on visiting my Mother-in-Law yesterday at the nursing care facility, so I decided to make some Valentines for the residents there. I had a box full of Valentine's elements stored on a shelf in my craft room, and quickly assembled some Chapstick holders and Jesus Loves You cards with Tootsie Pops.
As we approached the wing where she lives, we noticed that all the staff were lined up on both sides of the hallway. It felt as if we were in a parade, and the staff were the bystanders.
I gave the Queen's wave as we walked by and said "Is this a parade?"
"No, sadly, not a parade," said one of the nurses.
"Well, maybe it is a celebration parade," said another nurse.
Heads nodded, somberly, and then I understood.
A resident had passed away, and was being transported a short while later on the covered gurney.
It was a lovely gesture to honor a resident that they had all lovingly cared for over time.
It seemed like an appropriate thing to witness on Ash Wednesday.
As we received the imposition of ashes, our pastor said "Remember, you are dust and to dust you shall return. But these ashes are in the shape of a cross to remind you that you are one redeemed by Christ."
I was reminded of this beautiful hymn, "God's Own Child, I Gladly Say It."
Death, you cannot end my gladness,
I am baptized into Christ!
When I die I leave all sadness,
To inherit paradise!
Though I lie in dust and ashes,
Faith's assurance brightly flashes,
Baptism has the strength divine
To make life immortal mine.
Ash Wednesday, on Valentine's Day. No greater love than this.
Very touching.
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