AND I had just turned 19 when we heard that my grandfather had died in India. His death was unexpected, even though he was 71 years elderly, hearty and did many household chores on his own. Grandma had nothing to complain about. I was devastated, I loved him very much, he was my mentor and idol. Dad was already with Grandpa when he died and with that news, my mom, brother and I packed our bags and caught the first available plane. When we got home, it felt like a different place at a different time in life. It was chilly and dreary, completely unlike the home where I had spent so many summers. We continued the funeral, after which many people returned home.
I was with my aunt, mother and grieving grandmother when I suddenly felt an overwhelming need to turn back. When I did this, my grandfather was standing in the corner of the room wearing his favorite clothes. I don't remember what I felt then. I know I froze, but when he smiled, I started to relax. “It's okay, honey,” were the last words I heard from my grandfather as he stood there, still smiling. Tears came to my eyes, whether from relief or overwhelm, I don't know, but when I turned to wipe my tears and looked again, Grandpa was gone!
I still hear his words when I think of that day, his words of life – after his death!
