As I sat by Phil’s bedside today holding his hand, the serenity prayer kept coming to mind. This is a prayer that has helped Phil through the toughest of times and now sustains us.
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
the courage to change the things I can,
and the wisdom to know the difference.
Phil is resting comfortably with very little medicine needed at this stage. Occasionally, he has alert moments, but mostly he is asleep. Since hearing is the last sense to go, we continue to tell him that he is loved by so many people and that he is not alone. We play Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Lynyrd Skynyrd and other music that he has always loved. We watch NCAA basketball and NFL with him. We told him about the recent big win for the UA Golden Bears over Dublin Coffman in boys’ basketball (keep it going Casey…9-0!). But mostly, we sit quietly with Phil, holding his hand, and we think about all of the amazing times we have shared. And although our time with Phil may be limited, our wonderful memories are limitless. And that is our serenity.
Beautiful words, Megan. I am sure he can feel the love that surrounds him.
By: Karen Randall Scott on January 16, 2010
at 6:59 pm
The Henry Family is in my prayers at this most difficult time. Peace be with you all…
Paige Pierman
By: paige pierman on January 16, 2010
at 7:08 pm
I love that Casey had a big win, and that his buddy Phil has a smile inside about it.
Hearing may be the last sense to go, but Phil’s heart will always feel the love, concern, and thoughtfulness that is present and surrounds him!
By: leigh ann on January 16, 2010
at 7:27 pm
Please tell Philly that I love him and that he’s still a ROCK STAR!
Love to all of you,
Cousin Lynnie
By: Lynne Assardo on January 16, 2010
at 8:59 pm
My prayers are with you and your family. Keep talking to Phil. He loves all the stories. Those are very precious moments when he is awake…. cherish those!
By: Sue McGovern Kimble on January 16, 2010
at 11:59 pm
I can think of no better company than that of those who love you most! You are all in my prayers!
By: Andy on January 17, 2010
at 12:26 am
Dear Megan;
Your entries are a gift to those of us who are prayerfully waiting and loving Phil from a distance. Your words brought me to his bedside. Thank you.
By: Deborah on January 17, 2010
at 11:14 am
We feel your pain and continue to pray for all of you as you spend this precious time together. Our love goes out to Phil and all of your family. Peace be with you.
Love,
Beth and Mike
By: Beth and Mike James on January 17, 2010
at 2:03 pm
I keep thinking back to when Phil was painting our house. Maggie was 2 & asked everyday when he was going to be there. I always say he was her “first” boyfriend.
By: Molly Mortley Onstott on January 17, 2010
at 4:26 pm
Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers your way!
By: Regina Merullo on January 17, 2010
at 11:39 pm
God Bless Phil and the Henry family. Your love for each other and your faith will help you through this difficult time.
Mary DeCesaro Cameron
By: Mary DeCesaro Cameron on January 19, 2010
at 2:21 am
Your journeling is such a testimony to the healing power of love and family. Be strong, keep the faith and know that many people are praying for both you and Phil.
Mary
By: Mary on January 19, 2010
at 11:55 am