09/09/2026
My grandma is dying. We weren’t especially close growing up; family relationships can be complicated but nothing quite prepares you for saying goodbye. I took Willow to meet her Great Grandma, a little new life and light amongst so much sadness. While everyone understandably struggled to talk about what was happening, I held Grandma’s hand and asked the difficult questions. We talked about her wishes, her fears and her life.
I asked her the highlight of it all- “Meeting your Grandad.” I asked what sign she could send us one day so I could tell Willow her Great Grandma was saying hello- “A rainbow.” She chose All Things Bright and Beautiful for her funeral. I sang it to her and she joined in. She told me she loved me and to be happy. I couldn’t say goodbye so I said, “See you later. Don’t forget to send us rainbows”.
Nothing was left unsaid. Now Grandma has been moved into the same care home as Grandad. After a lifetime together, they get to end their love story side by side. Maybe a rich life isn’t about what you collect but who is there to hold your hand at the end. Love really is what remains 🌈
