I was caring for a woman on hospice one time who was very demanding and difficult. As a nurse I must remain professional and not absorb the negativity that sometimes comes with illness. It is understandable on the human level of suffering, the loss of independence, the struggle to maintain dignity, the need to make things right in our worlds before we move on can often times be overwhelming. Some find Grace and are able to navigate through the mired of challenges dying brings with it, others struggle and splatter their worry and angst onto anyone who comes near. So was the case of this woman, I tried reasoning with her to no avail.  Finally looking deeply into her eyes I said these words, “You are a beautiful flower of God, you know this.” it was more of a statement than a question and I am not certain how the words formed on my lips, as these are not ones that I had uttered before.  She stopped and became still as my words found her and she softly smiled and said, “Yes, I know.” I had recognized her soul, and she became still. It was a wondrous moment, as she had released herself and opened up her tightly held bud into the stunning flower she was meant to be.  The fragrance of peace permeated the air. The fear has dropped away and the deep knowing that she was all precious and infinitely loved enveloped her. We are all little blossoms of God, we bud, bloom and fade leaving precious petals to flutter in the wind of the memories of those we leave behind.