I am reminded of being there when my great-uncle–my first father figure–was dying. He had all his awareness up to the last day or so, when he had to be heavily-sedated for the pain.

I remember the happiness in his eyes–the only part of his body for which he had control in that last week–when I told him that I loved him.

It was painful for me, but I’ll always cherish the fact that he died at home–surrounded by those who loved him–and not alone. That’s the best we can ask for in this particular world.