Finding Hope in the Most Unlikely Place

A few weeks ago, my grandma was moved to hospice care. My family was devastated but grateful for the care we knew she would receive.

I didn’t want to leave her side, so I spent the next few days in her room. When I needed a moment alone, I would take walks. I didn’t have a destination; I would let the Lord lead me to where he thought I should be during those moments.

One day, I walked down a hallway I had never been through before. I came across a bulletin board covered in short prayers, inspirational quotes, and hope-filled images.

My eyes wandered over the board, but one particular graphic caught my eye. I couldn’t help but tear up when I saw it. The image was of a woman in a hospital bed who had recently passed. Her mourning family surrounded her, comforting each other after their loss. Although it is a sad scene, you can see the woman’s spirit is being warmly embraced by her late loved ones. They are reunited.

In a situation like this, it is often hard to remain hopeful. However, after seeing this picture, it was hard for me to be anything but that. I was reminded that we all have the opportunity to be reunited with our loved ones in Heaven.

My grandma passed away a few hours later, and I knew she was being welcomed into Heaven by her late husband and daughter.

Afterward, as I was sitting with my dad, I knew that he needed hope. I took him down the hallway and showed him the image. He stared at it for a few minutes. I could tell that he was moved by it, as well.

He turned to me and thanked me for showing it to him. He said it brought him immense comfort and reminded him that she wasn’t alone.

I miss her, but I will see her again. She is part of my future now. Until then, I know God is caring for her in His all-encompassing embrace.

Written By: Paige Muttillo | Marketing Manager | Catholic Cemeteries Association