Posted by Dad and I both had quivering chins and tear filled eyes. Becky, the music therapist from hospice, came again today. Dad requested love songs. And so Becky strummed her guitar and sang out one beautiful old melody after another.
She sat closest to Mama, who didn’t respond in any visible way to the music. Mom was settled in her recliner, mostly sleeping the whole hour. But across the room, in his recliner, Dad made requests. And his face lit up. Sometimes he clapped his hands and said, “That was good!” Sometimes he smiled and his eyes shone. And at least once I saw him wipe away a tear.
From where I sat I could see Mama’s pale, peaceful profile and Dad’s changing emotions. We enjoyed Tennessee Waltz and Let Me Call You Sweetheart and I Love You a Bushel and a Peck. And many more I can’t remember the names of now.
The one that especially touched me though was “Somewhere My Love”. Dad used to play it on his keyboard. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, the words equally so.
Somewhere, my love,
There will be songs to sing
Although the snow
Covers the hope of spring.
Somewhere a hill
Blossoms in green and gold
And there are dreams
All that your heart can hold.
Someday we’ll meet again, my love.
Someday whenever the spring breaks through.
You’ll come to me
Out of the long ago,
Warm as the wind,
Soft as the kiss of snow.
Till then, my sweet,
Think of me now and then.
God, speed my love
‘Til you are mine again.
by Francis Paul Webster and Maurice Jarre. Also known as the Love Theme or Lara’s Theme
from the movie Dr. (Doctor) Zhivago
As I heard Becky sing these lyrics, I looked at Mama. Her eyes were closed. She was so still and unresponsive. I actually looked to make sure she was still breathing.
And then I looked at Daddy, his face so full of life and love and emotions, and my eyes filled with tears as I saw his do the same.
And though there was honestly sorrow in the tears, for what Mom and Dad have lost, there were also tears of hope. Because I picture them meeting again in heaven someday. And then Daddy will have his eyesight back and he will be strong and able again.
And I can just picture him looking for his first glimpse of Mom. And Mom will be vibrant and full of life and health. She will sing with Daddy again. Her face will light up for him like old times. And most importantly she will have her memories back. And she and Daddy can share them together once more.
I see the joy in their faces as they find each other again. I see the long hug and embrace. I can picture Jesus watching them and smiling.
I’m thankful Mom and Dad still have each other now. And I’m so grateful I still have them both. But I am immeasurably more grateful that they both have put their faith in Jesus, and have the sure hope of an eternity with Him to come.
God's Grace and Life's Challenges 
I enjoy your heartfelt posts about your Mom and Dad. I have recently been diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s and I have cried each time I read your posts. My husband and I have been married for 37 years and we are trying to live life to the fullest. Our Lord and Savior has given us peace. We will be with Him in Heaven someday. Thank you for sharing your love and commitment for your Mom. I’m sure that she is thankful for you and all that you do for her. I know I’m thankful for my husband and my daughter for their love and support. May the Lord bless you with strength and peace. Connie Dotson
Connie, I’m so sorry you have this diagnosis. But so thankful to hear you know Jesus and have His peace. Thank you for sharing your story. I pray you will continue to walk in His peace and strength, too. God is faithful and good, even when life is hard. What a blessing to have family and the certain hope of heaven. I wish I could give you a big hug right now. Know that I’m sending you one with love.
This is a beautiful story and I see sorrow but much more than that I see/feel love!!! Past. Present. Future. There will be a beautiful future for this beautiful couple.
Thank you, Tanya!