Think About It...“When Silence Speaks”

Tonight I am sitting with my mother-in-law as she takes a journey from this world to the next. She cannot speak in the language of words. She communicates with body language and with an occasional sigh, moan, grunt or humming (we call it purring). I am trying to learn her new language so we will know how to respond. It is a new and confusing conversation we are sharing.

We speak in the language of soft touches, gently held hands, the brush of her hair, a pat on an aged hand. I believe she hears our feeble attempts to speak of our love, concern and compassion. I know we hear her as she communicates with her eye, hand, nod, smile touch or other silent words that say I’m ready.

How precious is the sweet smile, how troubling the furrowed brow, how confusing the unknown groan. We listen with great interest as she speaks. Her gentle touch speaks loudly of her love for my wife and her sister; a mother’s love needs no words.

Her groans speak of pain and we pray that God hears and will take her to the land of painless eternity. Her silent tears speak of a place where God will wipe them away and they will never be heard from again. Our silent breaking hearts speak of wonderful memories and faith.

How can one who has been silenced by the curse of Alzheimer’s speak so eloquently and with such dignity? The nurses, aids, staff and doctors have all listened to her silent message. They have seen her speak.

As a mother she continues to teach. May we all be reminded to talk less and speak more in smiles, twinkling eyes, holding of hands, laughter and sweet touches that shout I LOVE YOU!

May we learn to speak Arvoca (Susan’s and Jana’s mother) speak.

Brother Dave