She was sorry to have to say she could not come to sit with her husband’s cousin the following morning because she had an appointment, but during the night she received a message that her appointment had to be rescheduled.
Seeing that news, she traveled to offer her support. Their cousin was receiving hospice care at home, was not actively conscious, nearing the end of her life.
While she was there, she recalled how hearing is thought to be the last sense to remain, she read aloud to her the lovely Christmas card which had been received.
When she noticed no chest rising and falling she called for hospice to come. Their cousin was pronounced dead. May she rest in peace.
What profound gratitude came with the awareness of the changes outside of her human control that allowed her the privilege of being there that day. That awareness gently spread to other situations in her life which could bring forth concern.
“The world is held by unseen helping hands….”
History of Christmas cards*
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Many of the Christmas traditions we celebrate today, like trees and crackers, all started in the Victorian era. It also when the idea of sending Christmas cards become popular after the first commercially produced Christmas card was created by Sir Henry Cole in 1843. Early Christmas cards were expensive to produce.
May we rest in peace while we still have breath, rather than think we have to wait until we lay down these earth suits.