When you’ve reached my age, the instances of people dealing with the loss of a parent increase by way too many. The good news is that many of us are dealing with the same thing in the same instance and we can call upon eachother to support, share ideas of coping, and just know we’re not alone.
A friend I’ve known since high school saw some of my posts on social media about my Dad’s situation. She recently lost her Dad, and God bless her for reaching out. I’m also thankful she knows my love for song lyrics and how I can find lyrics to fit just about any event. She sent me the song below, written and performed by James Blunt. I first watched the video and simply bawled. I took it into where my Dad is and played it for him. My brother came into the room and we just stood there, crying, and hoping Dad was hearing and understanding every word.
The song was written by Mr. Blunt as a way to deal with his Dad’s terminal kidney disease. In a nutshell, he points out he just wants peace for his Dad and how the roles have reversed. He likens it to a Dad reading a bedtime story to his son, and when he’s done, he turns out the lights, says I love you, and chases the monsters away before he closes the door. I see the same with my Dad right now. I’m the one talking to him and telling him stories as he just stares off into the distance, occasionally giving me a quick look to let me know he’s aware I’m there. I’m the one tucking him in and making sure he’s comfortable and safe. I’m the one now chasing the monsters away and telling him to close his eyes and drift off to his new life.
Take a look on YouTube by searching ‘Monsters, James Blunt’.
I wish those of you who are close to losing a loved one peace for you and them, especially them as we can all believe our version of Heaven awaits us, but the transition has to have moments of anxiety. I know for my Dad, we’ve depended on him so much for so long, I’m sure he’s scared to go, but we’ve got this, Dad. You taught us well. When you finally work out the details with God, know we’ll miss you more than any of us will ever know, but the lessons you taught us will remain with us, the memories will carry us, and the love you gave us will keep us strong.
Monsters By James Blunt
Oh, before they turn off all the lights
I won’t read you your wrongs or your rights
The time has gone
I’ll tell you goodnight, close the door
Tell you I love you once more
The time has gone
So here it is
I’m not your son, you’re not my father
We’re just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you’re sleeping, I’ll try to make you proud
So daddy, won’t you just close your eyes?
Don’t be afraid, it’s my turn
To chase the monsters away
Oh, well I’ll read a story to you
Only difference is this one is true
The time has gone
I folded your clothes on the chair
I hope you sleep well, don’t be scared
The time has gone
So here it is
I’m not your son, you’re not my father
We’re just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you’re sleeping, I’ll try to make you proud
So daddy, won’t you just close your eyes?
Don’t be afraid, it’s my turn
To chase the monsters away
Sleep a lifetime
Yes, and breathe a last word
You can feel my hand on your arm
I will be the last one, so I’ll leave a light on
Let there be no darkness in your heart
But I’m not your son, you’re not my father
We’re just two grown men saying goodbye
No need to forgive, no need to forget
I know your mistakes and you know mine
And while you’re sleeping, I’ll try to make you proud
So daddy, won’t you just close your eyes?
Don’t be afraid, it’s my turn
To chase the monsters away
Random Thoughts of an Ordinary Average Guy 