~ Experiences ~

My Grandfather

I just turned 19 when we heard that back home in India my grandfather had passed away. His death was unexpected, he was healthy even at 71 and did a lot of household chores by himself.

My grandma had nothing to complain about. I was shattered, I loved him very much and he was my mentor and idol. Dad was already with grandpa, when he passed away and with the news, my mom, brother and I packed our bags and caught the first available flight out. When we reached home, it felt like another place in another life time. It was cold and drab, nothing like the house I had spent so many holidays in. We proceeded with the funeral, after which a lot of people came home.

I was with my aunt, mom and grieving grandma, when suddenly I had this overwhelming urge to turn around. When I did, there in the corner of the room stood my grandpa wearing his favorite clothes.

I don't remember what I felt at that time. I know that I froze, but when he smiled, I began to relax. "I'm alright sweetheart" are the last words I heard from grandpa as he stood there and continued smiling.

Tears welled up in the eyes, out of relief or being overwhelmed, I don't know but as I turned to wipe my tears and looked back again, grandpa was gone!

I can still hear his words when I think of that day, his words of life - after his death!