In the wee hours of this morning, I had my first dream about Dad since he died. I am still trying to figure out what it all means and I can’t remember everything that happened. I do know for at least part of it that I saw Dad free of all burdens. Both of us were in the hospital in the hallway but he was in a bed and I was on a stretcher waiting to be processed. He was in this massive king-sized bed which he kept rolling around from one end to the other freely and easily, laughing right out loud. He was so full of joy. I know that we had a long conversation but I don’t remember one word of it unfortunately.
Upon waking, I tried hard to remember anything I could, but alas I could not. My feeling about that particular part of the dream is precious and peaceful. I had a sense that he was unencumbered and loving wherever he was. I also had a feeling that he was telling me whatever I needed to know for what was to come for me. At that point, he was sitting up and his face seemed quite gentle. I returned to the dream a number of times throughout the day. There are lots of complicated parts that I may never understand but it was lovely to see my dad in a dream and know he was at peace. It seems like such a gift.
Today is the feast day of another great man: Saint Maximilian Kolbe who offered his life in Auschwitz so that another prisoner would not be killed. This was a man who knew how to lay down his life for others. I have always thought of my father this way – a man who knew how to work hard to ensure his family was taken care of and provided for. His body paid the price for it. Others reaped the benefits of the generosity of both of these men. May they both rest in peace.
Peace,
Suzanne
Reflection Questions
Have you ever had a visit in a dream from a loved one who has died?
Who do you know that has laid down their life for others?
Prayer
Holy and Mysterious One, you create a veil that is thin enough that we may be visited by those on the Other Side. I thank you for letting me know my loved one is free and at peace. May I emulate his wonderful qualities so that he may continue to shine brightly on this side of the veil. Amen.
God in all things 
Suzanne, I am so happy for you! This dream was such a precious gift. I seldom dream of my own Dad who died 28 years ago. On the few occasions that I can remember, it was with a sense of peace and joy. When I would recall the dream, I felt almost thrilled. No sadness or regret. Maybe there was some longing.
I have wondered also if I would have any “signs” from Mom, but nothing beyond lectionary readings and hymn texts. No matter, I will take them!
I am always blessed by your posts. Ever timely, they seem. I kinda cannot get over that they seem to be prescient ever since I found you on All Souls Day last of last year. God’s grace through your words. He certainly has blessed those of us who visit you by giving you “outlier” status. I pray for your strength, your peace, and wisdom for each decision you need to make.
I appreciated your post on dealing with funeral homes, pre-planning, etc. There are still small family-run funeral homes both where I live now and where I grew up. I am not sure if they are any more cost effective than the big chains but they seem to offer a very personalized and respectful array of services and are in good sync with local parishes.
In recent years, more parishes (including my own) have a parlor room that can be used for calling hours. I find this very appealing for all the obvious reasons.
I suppose you have received information about the Chicago Benedictine Monks who make simple wood caskets, but if not, you can easily google “monks caskets” for several links.
(Just random thoughts pertaining to your recent posts and finally getting around to sharing them.) You are such a gift in my life and I am so very thankful for you. Love and sweet napping, dear Suzanne!
Always lovely to see you here, Mary Beth. I too feel so blessed by our online relationship. This post about funerals as big business is getting a lot of buzz here and on my FB page. Thanks for understanding that it is not just about the financial piece but also and more importantly, about the personalized, compassionate services of the staff.
I am Canadian and we have a Village Casket maker who might do similar work to the monks.
I was telling my brother about the dream as he was here that week and offline so had not read my blog post. I know so many people long to have some kind of visit from their loved ones. I hope your mom stops in soon. 😉
Blessings to you, Mary Beth!
Suzanne
XXOO