Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Closure

He found peace in the steady hum of the machines, practicing lines in his head to get the conversation started.

It was so cliche. They’d never really talked. Now death was near, and they’d have their moment. A real conversation. Things long sensed but never confirmed. This was his chance. A son who wanted his father’s approval. He sensed it was finally near. A new nurse entered the room. Shift change. She forced a smile, introduced herself.

“When do you think he’ll be able to talk?”

“Talk? I’m sorry. I think the doctor will be here soon to discuss final decisions.”

2 comments:

  1. Good story, Jim. This one's too close to home. Almost 23 years ago, my father had a massive stroke from which he never regained consciousness and died two days later. We all should never put off those kinds of conversations.

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