The Open Door

There he was, sitting up in his bed, on sheets the color of his eyes, dusk falling, candles lit, lovely music. Outside our windows, the skyline twinkling, the lake a misty lavender blue. Surrounded by his family. His sons, me, and a dear dear friend. There he was, holding court, of sorts. It started out as dinner. Dinner with Lou. It started out as most visits do....."how are you ", "how's the family", "what can I do for you".....always the same questions. Always about the other person. Never about himself. We laughed some, we chit chatted. Some of us ate. Some of us had wine. And then, the door opened. Just a bit. And we went through that door, together, and found Lou. Our Lou. Lou of the penetrating, thought provoking questions. Lou who never was much for chit chat. Lou who always got to the heart of the matter. The voice of a national debate champion now soft, slow, winded....the deep, warm baritone now hardly a whisper. The music stops. We lean ever closer to hear, hanging on every word. We are amazed at the thoughts he has. The questions he raises. He sees into our hearts, our souls. We exchange glances....."what IS this", we telegraph to each other. I sit back and savor it, watch it unfold. It's magic. It's magic, and it's heaven. I am sure of it. After awhile, Lou tires. The soft voice trails off. The door closes, ever so gently. We sit in silence. One by one, we leave the room. I walk our friend outside, still wrapped in the magic. We hug and the tears fall. I walk back to Lou. I watch him as he sleeps, I see his heart beating. I wonder if the door will open again any time soon. Must be vigilant. Must be watchful. Must be present. Thank you dear Lou. Thank you.