For Dad

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
Lord, hear my voice! O let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleading.
My soul is waiting for the Lord, I count on his word.
My soul is longing for the Lord more than watchman for daybreak.
Because with the Lord there is mercy And fullness of redemption.


Dad had a pretty restless night. He seems to rest well, when he is resting. He will remain on pain medication and some of his other meds are being tapered off or stopped altogether. He isn't able to get up from the hospital bed any longer and seems pretty weak. He will hold the glass of water or smoothie and drink a swallow or two, but doesn't want to eat or drink anything else.


Friends came by this morning and he did say "Ah" when he saw them, so he is recognizing us, but doesn't stay awake for more than a moment or two. When he is awake with his eyes closed, I believe he is hearing us , but he does keep his eyes are closed the majority of the time. I sat by his bed this morning and prayed the rosary out loud. His face relaxed and he raised his eyebrows and almost smiled. Again, that lasted only for a moment, but I know he was hearing me. Mother said praying always relaxed him when he was stressed, so I will do that off and on during the day or at night, especially if he is stressing.


Mother is so stoic, but I can see that this is so hard for her. I can only imagine how difficult it is to see her husband of almost 66 years deteriorating before her eyes. She is supporting Dad's wishes of not prolonging his life and she is doing everything in her power to keep him comfortable. As a woman of faith, I know that she is comforted in knowing God is with her and Dad and all of us through this process.


What would we do without our faith? I am unconsciously praying throughout the day and will go read Dad the Psalms later. For now I will close with Psalm 23...


The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures: he leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul: he leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies: you anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.