Today, my best friend, Tony, an Anglican priest, came all the way down from Perth to pray for Anthony, Ming and me and it was beautiful. Ants was up and in his armchair, and awake, but not aware (I hope!) that it was a last rites situation. Tony read prayers and Ming and I also read bits and pieces from the Anglican prayer book – passages that pertained to our situation. Then Tony annointed Anthony with the holy oil that has been sitting on the kitchen mantle piece for years ever since a nun friend blessed him years ago when he was still living at home. Sister Romanus kept her holy oil in one of those now old-fashioned camera film containers and, after so long, it had turned into a putty consistency.
After the formalities, Tony held Anthony’s hand and said his own personal prayer for all of us. While he was doing this, Ming and I also put our hands on Ants. We were all emotional but not to the point of crying, whereas Ants seemed a bit nonplussed but admitted that he understood more than he let on.This was not in reference to the prayers but to our conversation later about his torana! I am curious to find out tomorrow if he remembers today’s experience.
Ming and I will never forget today and, for me, the peacefulness that Tony instilled has slowed my anxious heartbeat into a normal thrum and my tears are less wretched. I don’t feel panicked any more. Anthony is probably going to scare the hell out of me more and more often with these TIAs but the joy of seeing him awake surpasses that. The fact that he appears to be pain-free is a blessing.
Thank you, Tony, for today.
jmgoyder 
Tony presence sounds like both a blessing and great comfort for you all.
Good to hear Anthony appeared pain-free. That in itself is something I wish for all fellow human beings in the later stages of their lives. Peace and comfort is something all people wish for their loved ones and I’m glad to hear you are feeling a little less anxious in these difficult times. xx
My heart and thoughts are with you Jules, hugs xxxooo
what a beautiful gift to all of you –
(((hugs)))
I’m so glad for the peace that you have … Thinking of you as always! Diane ❤
This truely sounds a blessing….
Truly a blessing…love to you my friend. xo
Thank you, Julie, for today. Much love to you all.
❤
That is so beautiful as a life well lived should. We don’t all get that time in the end.
Sending hugs!
What wonderful friends you have, you must be an exceptional person.
Even though Anthony isn’t suffering, I feel your suffering. This impending loss has consumed so much of your life these past four years. I want to hug you.
The beauty that you find under such dire circumstances is inspirational. So many people are crying with you – though I know you feel very much alone.
My precious friend may God hold you, Ming and Ants in love and mercy. Sending you hugs my friend.
A moving story.
What a wonderful and calming experience I am sending hugs and blessings your way
❤
Such an intimate experience filled with love and beauty, thank you for sharing. Blessings to all of you.
I read this on my phone, I am sat on a train heading to visit my mum in hospital, she has sepsis but is responding well, it came out of the blue and is a reminder none of us are promised tomorrow and must cherish today xxxx
Thinking of you and your mama, Paula x
Finding small blessings as Anthony finds his way appears to allow you and Ming to stay focused and as calm as possible. Thank you for sharing your journey. Your writing is touching and inspiring. May the Great Spirits give you continued strength is this trying time. – Lorian
Beautiful in so many ways!
Glad you had a blessed spot in some tough days.
That sounds very comforting.
Here is some interesting information on how to pray.
http://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/worship/prayer