Journal of Sacred Work

   Last week I spoke with my dad. Mid-sentence he interrupted me using that stern voice I have known since childhood. "Remember, Chip, two glasses of wine is one too many." 

   "Good God, Dad" I told him. "I'm old enough to decide how much to drink."

   "If you are so wise, why did you drink three glasses last night?" he laughed, a joyful sound I have also known since I sat in his lap seventy years ago.

   Of course, my dad died twenty years ago. But, I hear his strong voice every day.

   Recently, I decided to make it a two-way conversation instead of just listening. It is comforting. I generally know what he would say but I ask questions anyway.

   So many voices live in you – people you love who are "gone." It can feel lonely.

   Why not populate your heart's community with people you love but are either long gone or simply away on a trip. 

   In fact, when I lie in bed at night I conduct private conversations with my distant children and others I love. 

   After the legendary George Burns' equally famous wife, Gracie Allen, died he visited her grave every day. There he conducted extended conversations with her. She often made him laugh.

   Some people called him crazy. George ignored them. He loved talking with his best friend.

   Caregivers know that the dying often spot those who have gone before. Some offer a welcoming wave. 

   I know doctors who still hear the voice of long-dead professors. One said, "I like to call up Dr. Robinson's reassuring voice before surgery." Another said he asks Jesus how to calm his anxiety & Jesus responds.

   The older you become, the more people will leave you for another consciousness. Why not check in with them every so often? You can pick who you want to engage.

   Most ghosts are glad to help. Maybe the dead will teach you something new. Best of all, maybe they will brighten your life with the warmth of their companionship.

   Last Sunday, my youngest granddaughter was Christened amid the snowy world of Boston. Beforehand she sat in my son's lap gazing at her brother & my daughter's son & daughter.

   After I leave this world I hope each of them will keep talking to me. I would love hearing from them. So would my dad. 

-Reverend Erie Chapman