Love You to the Moon and Back

A Real Life Story by Glenn Hansen

Dedicated to Sweet Judith, wherever you are in God’s universe.

CHAPTER 18

On the Wednesday following that Monday, I received a phone call from the wife of one of Judy’s sons around nine o’clock in the morning. Judy had passed away last night. I immediately offered my condolences to her and the family and said if they needed my help in any way, please let me know. This is customary, but I really meant it.

My emotions were plentiful and diverse. I was so sorry Judy passed away, but I was happy knowing the pain and suffering she endured was over. I believe she’s gone somewhere much better than this planet into God’s universe. It is my faithful belief and hope that I too, when I leave this planet, will likewise move into God’s universe. Maybe I will even see Judy again in some way. This all is an unknown that will never be resolved on this planet.   

Nevertheless, even though this was expected, you’re never ready for it. The sense of loss, however it reveals itself to you, is staggering and overwhelming. I’m still working through it and I don’t really know how long it will take. I will ultimately move on, but I must be patient. To be sure though, I will never forget and will always feel Judy.

I’ve been fortunate. I have never lost a sibling. I have lost both of my parents. I remember and love my mother, but it is my dad that I really miss to this day. He passed away quite some time ago, and while I have long gone on with life, he is never far away from my thoughts and being, and this is a good thing in so many ways.

I remember I was pretty stoic at first when he passed away. I concentrated on the tasks at hand which is my nature. But a few weeks later, as I was driving somewhere, the loss hit me like a ton of bricks. I started to cry and cry, so much so that I pulled over and stopped. This was “the moment.” There was nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. The feelings had to come out. I learned this is necessary so that you can carry on in life. As time passes, you really will feel better again. Time heals. This was a seminal moment for me. While I don’t remember where I was going, I clearly remember where I pulled over. I also remember it was day time.

I was grateful to have received the phone call about Judy’s passing so quickly because they wanted to let me know first so that I would not hear it second hand. Her family recognized we had a special relationship for which I am thankful. I always stood aside though when it came to her family and their wishes. I was not ever going to be a hindrance to them. They were family. I also naturally presumed they would now let others know with expedience.