We're Spending Thanksgiving in the I.C.U.

Thanksgiving 2021. I am in the hospital with Papa Callan. The ICU. I will miss out on the turkey dinner at home with Dr. Thompson, but no matter. I am hungry for Papa Callan’s words of wisdom. And he did not disappoint.

And now, as we approach the anniversary of his passing, I am share his thoughts on how live a happy life with you, my friends.

Friendship

When Papa Callan was 97 years old and in need of extra help, I became his caregiver. And when I moved in with him, the first thing I did was to take away all his candy. Papa Callan was diabetic, after all. I told him that this was for his own good. I added, I’m doing this because I’m your friend.

He listened to me, solemnly nodding his head and said, Yes, friends. That’s the most important thing.

Word Play keeps romance alive at any age

Papa Callan called his girlfriend, Beverly, every morning and every evening at the same time. They began their conversations with Beverly saying, Hello Deer, and he would reply Hello, Doe. I could hear the laughter in his voice right up until the very end. Honestly, this little dialogue never got old.

The Secret to Life

Just before Thanksgiving, my dad was so weak, I checked his vitals, which were not good and called 911. As we were waiting for the ambulance to arrive, thinking this might be our very last opportunity for a private conversation, I whispered in his ear, Dad, what’s the Secret to life?

He looked thoroughly annoyed and said Fine. Get out of here!

Now, I don’t know whether he understood my question, or was simply annoyed with me, getting all philosopher at such a moment. Nonetheless, I took his response to mean that one shouldn’t sit around asking what the meaning of life is, but rather one should simply live their life.

Thanksgiving in the ICU

While Papa Callan was in the ICU over the Thanksgiving holiday, we entertained ourselves by writing a song about it. It went like this:

We’re spending Thanksgiving in the ICU,

watching the saline drip.

How about you?

Leftover turkey, mashed potatoes too.

We’re spending Thanksgiving in the ICU.

There’s Doctor Manny. He’s got a job to do.

He’s spending Thanksgiving in the ICU.

Here come the nurses, they’re all dressed in blue.

They’re spending Thanksgiving in the ICU.

Creative Friends--Wherever you’re spending your Thanksgiving, please know that I’m grateful to have you with me on this creative journey.

Here’s wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Love,

Jamie