Sunday, January 02, 2011

You just never know.

Some years ago a friend requested that I visit someone in the hospital who had contracted hepatitis from injecting drugs with a dirty needle. I didn't know Frank, had only met him once or twice in passing but we never spoke. I was told that he was a good person who had just made some serious mistakes with his life and needed a cheering up.

When I arrived at his hospital room he was in good spirits and while weakened from his disease he did not appear very ill. It was a time when I had just rediscovered my Christian faith and I told Frank about Jesus and told him he should pray. He received this message well and then we went on to have a good conversation about many odd things, laughing, joking and having a good time. He promised to be in touch when he was feeling better and I said I would visit him again if he were in the hospital next week.

A few days later I received word that Frank had died that evening, I was stunned and remain stunned to this day. I've never told this story to anyone before. Rest in peace Frank.