Gracefully Saying Goodbye

At the age of 82, and with serious health issues, Casey knew her life was coming to an end.

"I've lived a full life," she told her three daughters. "And soon I'll happily join your father."

One sunny Saturday morning, Casey impulsively went to the farmer's market and selected her favorite foods, and the favorites of her daughters and her friends.

While still at the farmer's market, she called her closest friend to help her prepare a magical meal on Sunday.

Then when Casey got home, she texted everyone with the words, "Come one, come all to a brunch I'm hosting in my home tomorrow at 11 am. I know it's short notice, but please don't miss it."

The next day when her guests arrived, she warmly greeted them, as the scent of the food cooking and the bread and pastries baking perfumed the air.

Soon everyone was eating and laughing and having a good time.

Few noticed that Casey was quickly tiring, until she stumbled and then carefully eased herself onto her couch.

"I'll call an ambulance," one of her daughters shouted in a panic.

"No sweetheart," Casey replied. "I've had enough of hospitals."

"I had a burst of energy yesterday that carried into today. While I had that energy, I wanted you, my family and friends to be with me so we could eat and laugh and celebrate life together."

"Thank you all for being here, and for being the special people you are. Each of you made my life so much better and I hope I did the same for you."

Casey then closed her eyes and smiled softly. Soon she was gone.

Two weeks later, everyone got together again on the beach, this time to celebrate Casey's life and to sprinkle her ashes into the surf.

Once again there was good food and laughter but it was a dark and cloudy day.

However, it is said that as her ashes met the sea, the dark clouds mysteriously parted and the sun shined brightly on everyone, the warmth touching their souls.

Dick

If you think this is only a fable:

This story was in part inspired by a story Internet mogul and author Arianna Huffington shared on "Super Soul Sunday" with Oprah Winfrey, (5/11/14), about the death of her mother, after she had shared food with family and friends she had just purchased at the Santa Monica International Market.

And it was partly inspired by Anita Bogan, a marvelous lady who died at 106, after happily calling her family and friends to join her, telling them she'd be gone the next day, which is what happened.