8 Comments
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<Mary L. Tabor>'s avatar

What a son you have been: the definition of love and devotion.

Ollie's avatar

It was a test, Mary! Sometimes I struggled, and it felt like it aged me, but I can see now that it was an unavoidable stage of life. And I'm glad I was there to help.

Karla Portch's avatar

As usual, you pack so much into your flash fiction. You’ve got layers babe! Love the beautiful portrait you’ve painted of caregiving with this quotidian snapshot.

Ollie's avatar

Thanks Karla. 😘

Jane Doutré's avatar

Beautiful piece of writing. Care giving is often exhausting, and can feel thankless. The simple comment about asking your brother to organise a gardener says so much. I love the Zen Master reference.

Ollie's avatar

Thanks Jane. x

Veronika Bond's avatar

You capture this so well Ollie! It does require a Zen master's mind to accompany a loved one along their final journey of their earthbound life.... as indeed it does when holding their hand to support their first steps into this 'precious life'.

Some times it's a gift we can offer. Some times a gift we can reciprocate. In any case it's a gift we give to ourselves in the moment of giving to another, fostering and empowering the circle of life and love.

Beautifully written ♥️🙏 ✨✒️

Ollie's avatar

Thank you for reading and for the thoughtful response, Veronika. Really appreciate it. xx