The ambulance arrived with a beautifully kept, very stoic little 90 year old lady.
"The dogs were fighting and they tripped her up. I think her hip is broken. Her husband is getting a sitter for the dogs and then he'll be in. He's 91." says the paramedic.
Tears roll down her cheeks as we move her from stretcher to bed. "Oh no dear, it's not that bad" she responds to our apologies. "I'll be fine as soon as Harold gets here."
Harold arrives. He rushes to her side, holds her hand and strokes her cheek. "You'll take good care of her, won't you? She means everything to me!"
A month later Harold arrives by ambulance. I almost don't recognize him - he is pale and gaunt, with a shroud of sadness so dense it clouds my vision and brings tears to my eyes.
"He's been like this since Mom died last month. He won't eat or talk." says his son.
He doesn't respond to voice but turns his head when I stroke his cheek. "Hi Harold" I say. "I'm Mama Mia. I took care of Esther the night she broke her hip. I'm so sorry."
"I know" he says "but we'll be together soon." He closes his eyes and does not open them again.
Love of mine some day you will die
But I'll be close behind
I'll follow you into the dark
No blinding light or tunnels to gates of white
Just our hands clasped so tight
Waiting for the hint of a spark
If Heaven and Hell decide
That they both are satisfied
Illuminate the NOs on their vacancy signs
If there's no one beside you
When your soul embarks
Then I'll follow you into the dark
(I Will Follow You Into The Dark ~ Death Cab for Cutie)
9 dust motes:
Oh my God, now you've done it.
I'm crying. What a sad yet beautiful story.
MJ
Well thank you very much, now I have to get up and go get Kleenex! : (
You've made me cry as well. And I'm at work!! Love your blog.
I can't imagine being loved like that.
awwwww. i have tears, too.
i like the use of one of my favorite songs in your blog. i like to think i have contributed to your life in some way.
A lovely story of lifelong love.Reminds me of my grandparents and their devotion to eachother. And you closed with those great lyrics, I love that song. Now I must go dry my eyes. Thanks.
A late comment I’m afraid, but OMG that story brought a tear to even my hard-ass jaundiced eyes!
Requiem Aeternam dona eis, Domine!
POW!
Wow, I wasn't expecting that, and now I need a kleenex, too.
/jo
great story.
I just came across your blog and I wanted to tell you that this story really gives hope to people afraid of settling down. It was a great post. Thanks!
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