“George”

When I started in real estate many years ago, I never dreamed that I would form life-time relationships with so many families OR that they would take up so much room in my heart.  I have truly learned to love my clients like family (ok not EVERYone of them, but MOST…).

I got a text last night at 2:45 a.m. letting me know that “George” was being released from the hospital into home hospice care.  He would not have much time and if I wanted to come see him, I’d better do it quickly.

I was shocked at the profound sadness that enveloped me.  The year prior, at Thanksgiving time, I had visited “George” in the hospital following bypass surgery.  I arrived with a pumpkin pie.  He was exhausted following surgery, but things had gone well and doctors anticipated a complete recovery.  It was a visit filled with hope. 

Fast forward a year later and he is not expected to pull through this one.  I entered his room today and he opened his eyes briefly and thanked me for coming.  We made a bit of small talk, but I could see he was exhausted, so I simply held his hand while he slept.  It was a humbling, emotional experience for me.  I kissed the top of his head before I left.  My heart was breaking….

His wife had gone down to the cafeteria and I was able to visit with her for a bit and meet one her sons and a daughter.  I made the comment to his wife that I had felt an immediate connection to her and her sweet husband when I first met them.  She said, “We felt that same connection the very first time we met you.”  She was grateful to me for coming, but it is I who benefited from the visit.  I can’t really put into words my feelings for them, but I am a better person for having known them.  They are down-to-earth, genuine good people with huge hearts and a love for God.  

This will be the fourth client/friend I have lost since I started in real estate and each loss has been hard for me.  I feel so incredibly blessed for amazing clients who give me so much.  I learn much from every relationship and am better for having been able to serve them for a short time.  It is interesting how humble and beautiful people are when death is knocking at the door.  Their is a beauty that shines from them.  Almost a radiance.  What a privilege to know “George”.  While my heart feels heavy, I am grateful for the knowledge of the gospel and that families can be forever.  I pray for peace for his sweet wife and their beautiful family.  May their perspective be eternal in nature and may they all know how very loved they are!