Departure Lounge

 The end comes to us all.  If we are lucky it follows the natural order - the old going before the young.

Even though that is the natural order, modern society has not prepared us for the reality.  I am a surgeon.  I see the end of life all the time.  I have had pets, I have seen too many animals leaving before their time, and many leaving at the right time.

  However much you know about death, it never protects you from the emotional and cognitive load of the impending death of a first degree relative.

 You have to be careful, to see past the drudgery and exhaustive nature of caring for your loved one, to ensure that you know and they know that you have done all you can and been with them as much as you can.

Sometimes that time is precious.  Mostly it's just time.