We left the hospital
to let my dad rest.
Before we could return,
the doctor called.
with the news of his passing.
I should have been there.
The dull ache of regret
lingers even though
I have all the right words to release it.
Regret,
blame, disappointment,
guilt, and powerlessness,
take up more space
than I wish they would.
But they don’t take up
all the space
Compassion invites me to breathe
and let them be.
This, too, shall pass.
A joy, a depression, a meanness…
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture…
–Rumi, The Guest House
An Everyday Pilgrim 
Oh, I’m so sorry for your loss. Yes, the guilt will pass. ‘This too, shall pass’ seems to be one of my favourite sayings these days.
Peace,
Susan
“You are the light of the world.” – Jesus of Nazareth
LikeLike
Thanks, Susan.
LikeLike
I am sorry for your loss dear Esther. I lost both father and mother last year. I wrote a memory book for me and my family. I put photos and stories in the memory journal. I want to ensure I don’t forget their faces and their words.
LikeLike
I am sorry for your loss too… to lose both your parents in one year. That’s hard. May you be blessed as you remember your parents and may new memories come to you.
LikeLike
Thanks for writing that … I still feel the guilt. My dad died 20 minutes after I left him …
LikeLike
Thanks, Audrey. May God comfort us both.
LikeLike
Very well said Esther. I am so sorry for your loss. I think we all have regrets when one of our parents pass away. But you are so right, this too shall pass. You did as much as you could and I’m sure he appreciated every minute you spent with him. Hugs💕💕💕
LikeLike
Thanks so much. I am sure he did too.
LikeLike
So sorry to hear about you dad Esther. It’s so hard to have a parent pass away. We are in Vernon this long weekend if you need anything or a great big hug❤️ Kim and John
LikeLike
Thanks Kim.
LikeLike
So sorry for your loss. So well put.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, so much.
LikeLike