The old man looked me in the eye. Said, “Take a load off son.” I’d taken care of him that day. My shift was all but done.

I sat down next beside him, this tough and grizzled man. Then told him that I had some time. That’s how the night began.

He said, “I’ve been here long enough. I’m tired and all alone. My Emma’s coming for me and tonight I’ll be back home.”

I knew his Emma passed away a year or so ago. Since then he hadn’t been himself; just couldn’t let her go.

I told him that his Emma wasn’t with us anymore. He said it didn’t matter they would meet at Heaven’s door.

I’d witnessed older patients who had passed away at night. But I’d never had one tell me that tonight he’d see the light.

I told him, “It’s the morphine that has muddled up your head.” “My mind has never been so clear.” Is what the old man said.

He then proceeded telling me, “I see you don’t believe. But seeing is believing so tonight I’ll take my leave.”

I offered him some water and he pushed my hand away. His gaze went right on past me. I didn’t know what to say.

The old man smiled. He then reached out and said, “I’ll see you, son.” I saw him take his final breath. The old man’s life was done.

I didn’t see his Emma and for sure I saw no light. But when it came to dying, the old man had called it right.

Did Emma come and take him home? I guess I’ll never know. But if dying was that easy, then I’d choose that way to go.

Well death’s a part of living and I’ve seen too many die. But I won’t forget the rough old man who knew his time was nigh.

Bryce Angell has lived around horses his entire life and is a registered nurse in Idaho Falls.