There aren't words to adequately describe how grateful I feel to be in Utah. To stand by my Grandfather's bedside, kiss his head, and say my goodbyes. When I'm in Halifax my Grandparents are always on my mind. Grandpa Prince in particular. I dread getting a phone call telling me he's gone. All I would do is think of the last time we were together, and all I would want to do is hug and comfort my own father.
This past week I have witnessed real tender mercies.
Being here in Utah to celebrate the life of my grandfather, having last chances to make memories with Grandpa in health, and of course the blessing of spending time with him in his last days.
Death always puts life in perspective.
Suddenly, we are more grateful for every breath, every memory, and every minute we have together.
On Monday evening our family gathered at the hospital to give both grandpa and grandma a special priesthood blessing. I had to snap a picture with my brothers because it is not often that we are all together. There was a spirit in that hospital room strong enough to never forget. The events of the evening are perhaps too sacred, and special to share, but will forever be etched in my memory.
Grandpa lived a happy, healthy life for 88 years. His life will always remind me of love and dedication for family, hard work and persistence, finding joy and beauty in simple things, enduring to the end and trusting in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For him, I am so grateful.
Tender and Beloved Grandfather
Kenneth Leon Prince
Dec. 18, 1921 ~ July 21, 2010
12 comments:
Jess I am so sorry for your loss! I knwo how hard it is to lose the ones we love, but the gospel is a great comfort! Thinking of you and your sweet family!-xo-
Thank you for such a beautiful post. That picture of you, grandma and grandpa is PRICELESS! I love you Jess and it's been beyond wonderful to have you and your family here during this and to get to see you guys!
Jessica i really loved this post, the part about death putting things in perspective really rings true for me this week. It seems that all I can think about is the blessing that the plan of salvation is in our lives. Thank you for sharing with everyone. Love you!
You have a beautiful perspective! Love you guys!
I am sorry for your loss. I check up on you guys from time to time and have been reading about your time in Utah! Sounds like perfect timing for you to be here. Our prayers are with you all at this time ;)
Sorry to hear of the loss of your grandpa. I am glad that you were able to be there to witness that special memory.
Jessica, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My grandma passed away our first year away in Halifax and it was SO hard not being there. Before we moved away I kind of knew it was going to happen so I was a little prepared for it. I did get to see her that first Christmas home and I remember spending those last few moments with her. I am so happy that you were able to be there and be with your family during this hard time. We'll be thinking and praying for your family. Hugs!
Jessica...I am so sorry for your loss. Death is something I have a great challenge with but it is so comforting to know that through God's plan we will be able to see our loved ones once again. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Let me know if you need anything!
I'm so sorry to hear about your Grandpa. You definitely have the right perspective and times like this make us so grateful for the gospel. I'm glad you guys are having such a wonderful time in Utah and that you could visit with him one last time!
Im so sorry to hear about your loss! What a neat blessing to be here and be able to say your goodbyes. Death is never easy, and we wish you guys the best!! Have fun the rest of your trip here in Utah.
Soo sorry to hear of your loss but how greatful i'm sure you were to have been able to see him and hug him before he passed.
I was hoping for a different outcome (stupid 5th floor is cursed!!!) but I'm glad you were able to be there with him and say your goodbyes. Being able to say goodbye really helps with closure. You have such an amazing perspective, just remember God loves you.
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