Lunar Eclipse by Mark Moore of Brighton, Michigan, via Jonathan Gold
What do you do “in hospice” when you have an upcoming expiration date but still a clear mind? I’ve never done this before and am no expert, but life and death are so fascinating….and mysterious…that one person’s experience might be interesting. So, I’ll share.
I’m planning for the biggest trip of all.
It’s a different kind of work than I was used to doing, so it took me a beat to see that’s what I was doing. I’m used to being busy with too much to do and lots of company in this world, not quiet and contemplative with the urge to hunker down with John (and the kids when they’re home). Hunkering down isn’t my nature, but when you think about it, it makes sense, doesn’t it? If you have the flu, do you feel like seeing people when you’re at your most sick? I’m not in great pain (thank goodness) but cannot eat much and am growing weaker every day. Our hospice team is ready and willing to help in every way possible, but in many ways, this is a waiting game. I can’t control it. That’s hard. I can only control my reaction. Hunkering down feels right.
I spend much of my days now learning about this last, great adventure which we will all take. I learn from people who died and came back, psychologists who hypnotize patients and are surprised to learn about past lives, and hospice caregivers who have been part of this sacred dance, many, many times over decades. By the way, thank goodness for hospice and the work of Elizabeth Kubler Ross and others. Dying in the modern medical age before hospice, was often just plain cruel. Our ancestors knew better, but, as with so much, we separated ourselves from the reality of death and forgot how to do it.
I have always thought there is too much evidence of a higher power (…just try to make even a single leaf without raw materials, much less a rainbow; we can’t) to ignore the idea. The glimpses we get of higher love, even amongst ourselves, bear even more witness to whatever source power you choose to believe in and whatever you want to call it. I was glad to find there is similarly LOTS of evidence of a soul life after our physical bodies can’t sustain life on earth anymore due to cancer, terminal illness, an accident…or if you’re really lucky, old age. Raymond Moody’s Life After Life was a groundbreaking book when it first came out. Now, there is a whole genre of books about patients’, caregivers’, and families’ experiences at the end of life. Most of the stories have at least a dozen elements in common (the bright light, floating above your body, meeting soul mates etc.). This is not my first reading of these books, but it’s certainly the most focused. Can they all be wrong? No way. It’s a mystery but not without clues.
So, I read. I meditate (confession, I don’t love it and forget about sitting on a cushion). I dream and pay attention to those dreams, hoping for visits from souls who can comfort me. I’m looking for my dad, who passed in August, my beloved grandmother, my aunt, my cousin, his dad…I’m looking for guidance because THEY are the people who actually know what this transition is like. They’ve done it. They are our mentors. My dreams have always been wild, so following them sometimes feels like hanging onto a mechanical bull. At times, they are peaceful. Jesus sat with our little family in a light blue robe a month or so ago. He was there for my soul, but he comforted John, Sophie, and Grant. We didn’t say much (anything?), but it was nice…and consistent with my Catholic and Episcopalian roots.
We all grieve what might have been, also. That’s real. I’d rather be preparing to visit Sophie in Spain or Grant at college…dancing at Sarah’s and Chelsea’s weddings…prepping for that big trip to Australia with John or Namibia with Susan. It feels as if that’s what should be, but this is what we have. Our kids are bravely carrying on with life as well. It took a lot of balls for them to hug their mom goodbye, then get on planes to Granada and Philadelphia. We are left with “empty nesting” in hospice. I hope you are enjoying the weddings, the travel, and even just the dinners out that John and I imagined at this stage. What do we do? John and I spoil Rocky even more. I take some pleasure in the leaves changing, the sun on my face, and the little bit I can eat. With John’s help, I still cook some, mostly for nostalgia (e.g., Chaldean hamuth kibbeh, tortilla Espanola, anything Minna made), whatever the kids want when they’re home, and because that’s one of my creative expressions and love languages. It’s hard to stop a lifetime habit. I’m still a foodie, just a hungry one. I gathered our favorite family recipes, so they will be handy, later. I play word games because I still can. I made our family photo album again this year and bought some Christmas presents. It’s hard to stop doing the things of life if you don’t have to yet. It’s liberating to know that I can be done when needed. When I need to rest.
Nothing has been left unsaid to anyone. I’ve had extraordinary conversations with both of our kids, who are learning to face mortality so much younger than most these days. I hope it somehow helps them live more fully, with less fear…eventually. John and I have had almost 3 years of meaningful conversations; we don’t need many words now. There are letters waiting for John and our kids, some for specific milestones I’ll miss on earth (good idea, Sophie). I’ve gotten my metaphorical, and in some sense physical, house in order. This has been the benefit of a long goodbye rather than an abrupt ending. John and I have discussed my cremation and burial. How’s that for surreal? Our priest, Jeanne, has been by to share blessings and plans; I’m lucky she’s a friend. We’ve planned a memorial for later when kids and friends will be home (and I’m likely to be gone). I hope it gives you what you need, and that you love each other and surround my family. John will be the one to share more about all that, at the right time.
We watch shows at night. Documentaries. Series. Nothing dark anymore; I just can’t. Mostly it’s just John, Rocky, and me. I still love to share what we think about these shows. John’s my favorite conversation buddy. He gives good foot rubs too.
I treasure the goodnight hug, thinking of a time when I may not be able to make my presence so known, so solid.
I’m still sad that medicine didn’t work for me…all of the kinds we tried, but I don’t spend so much time perseverating on all that now. It’s been in the blogs. It’s in the book that will come out after I’m gone. I hope that will make a difference for someone else, even just not to feel so lonely.
I reminisce. I can look through old pictures and family movies with more sweetness than sadness. I’ve had a good life. I don’t feel as though I wasted time. I don’t have many regrets. I just wanted more of this particular assignment, with these people.
And I imagine…
What it will feel like in the end.
Who will come to meet me.
What happens next.
How I’ll feel at the “review” of this life.
Whether I’ll get more chances at embodied life on Earth, or maybe a cleaner planet where there is no cancer.
If so, will I level up to help others? Is that even a thing? Some people and ancient texts swear by it.
Will I get to flit to Spain to see Sophie, Phili to see Grant, and back to Shaker to make sure Rocky is giving John as much love as he can, all in an instant?
I know the basics of what will happen to my physical body. That part interests me less (and sure, scares me more) than what will happen to my soul. Still, it’s good to be educated. To make choices while I still can. It helps to move through the fear.
I have always loved to travel. How could I not embrace this biggest trip of all? There are a lot of upsides…no packing, no worries about passports/ID/TSA, and leaving behind a body that did its best but has been challenged to the brink. It’s been strange eating solely for pleasure, leaving most of the supplements behind, and not pushing myself to walk/run/do yoga/keep up my muscles. Been there. Done that. Now is a time of rest. This trip requires peace, not last-minute leg-shaving, lists, and snacks. If we’ve been paying attention, we’ve had lots of invitations to prepare, all along the way. It’s a lifelong process. The biggest obstacle is fear. I don’t claim to be fearless, but I don’t spend all day crying or shaking in my boots. Hospice is here to help. I look forward to relief. There’s more evidence that this biggest trip of all is a beautiful one than a tortuous one (even if we weren’t all saints on earth).
So, I’m taking care of my soul. I’m getting ready for the trip. Not just on Sunday. Not just in prayer or meditation, but as my day job now. It’s quiet work but it’s not boring.
It’s the biggest adventure of all.
No words – just love and warm, light-filled prayers for you, Jackie.
Thank you again for sharing your journey with us.
❤️
Thank you for sharing all of this. Godspeed! ❤️🙏🏻❤️
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I don’t have anything of importance to share….other than to say you’ve been on my mind. I send my love and prayers to you, John and the kids. Blessings Jackie.
Thank you 🙏❤️
😘🙏
You are a beautiful soul and I am glad that I was a small part of your journey. Sending you lots of love and strength. Happy Travels, Maggie
😘❤️
Jackie you are the bravest person I know. As I look at my little 5 foot 3 inch daughter Meghan telling her 6 ft plus male Google team team members what to do, I see you back at McKinsey paving the way for her. You have always inspired me. For that I will be forever grateful. You truly are one of the greatest persons I have ever met. Thanks for being such a wonderful human being.
Love you too Owen
My being is excited for all the potentials ahead for you. You are amazing and I love you. I have read this once and know I will come back to it again for moser wisdom and insight. Will you tell my mama hello ❤️?
Oh, yes ❤️
So glad that I’ve known you and been privileged to read your words
Ty 🙏
May this adventure be as beautiful as you are, Jacki. Blessings to you and your loved ones as you approach the best that is yet to come.
🙏❤️
I recall vividly my last hug with my Mom before I had to leave the country, as I’m sure your children will. They will cherish that memory, I’m certain. Thank you for sharing yout journey and for being in our lives. God bless you, Jackie.
Thanks for sharing ❤️
II believe in the eternal soul. I definitely hope that when you come back & “level up”(that made me smile. Thx!) that you’ll find me. And if I pass before you return I hope you’ll greet me. Please look for my Mother. She will take excellent care of you. I pray & tell her every night to look for you. I can’t tell you how much I will miss your wise words & I’m so looking forward to its relief. I’m so grateful I had you in this life.. Go in peace.surrounded by love . Know I’ll be looking for signs everywhere from you. I love you & will miss you, but I will keep you alive in my heart & mind along with all I’ve learned from you. I won’t say “goodbye”., but I will miss you until we meet again. With much love and admiration.
Love you too
You nourish all with love, honesty, and relatable insight. Sending you boundless love and light. Mark
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Words cannot express how amazing I think you are. Wow. ❤
Wow this is so real. Thank you for sharing. Love you Jackie
Love you too Carmen
Beautifully said, Jackie; you’ve touched so many lives. Peace and love to you. We’ll be there to hold up your mom.
Thank you 🙏❤️
No words. Just love. You are so amazing. Your soul will live forever.
Love! You will see the book in all it glory, it’s my heavenly promise..
I’m grateful for you ❤️🙏
You are incredible! I’ve been praying for your comfort and peace and it looks like you’ve found it. I will be coming back to your blog posts a lot. Thank you for sharing so much with the world.
Thank you 🙏
As my partner said after reading this – it seems like you’re already on a higher plane. Truly a superlative human being. And my mother told me she said a rosary for you. Love to you always. Xo Laurie
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Oh my goodness! Jackie you are such an inspiration. I pray when it’s my time I’m as organized and articulate as you! I pray for you and your family. May God bless all of you!❤️🙏🏻❤️
😘🙏❤️
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You were my first mentor, and it feels like just yesterday when you were sharing advice with me back at McKinsey. I would walk into your 29th floor office in Chicago, typically on a Friday, with a work related question. And I’d always walk out a little taller, with newly gained perspective. More often than not you’d share (unsolicited!) life advice with me.
Twenty-five years later, I still treasure those lessons on empathy, finding the perfect life partner, and leading with kindness. You are a shining light, and have always given more than you’ve asked for in return from the world. I am a better father, husband, son and leader because of you, Jackie. Sending warmth, love, and hugs to one of the most beautiful human beings I’ve ever known.
The admiration is mutual, Robert ❤️🙏
oh Jackie…what can I say…only that you are and will be forever a beautiful soul…much love to you and John
Much love back to you❤️
I’m sending love and peace to you, my dear friend. I thank God that you and Sophie came into my life when you did. I will always cherish that long walk in the snow, writing beside you in my home, sharing dinner at Taza, post-concert hugs, and exchanging stories of empathy, heartbreak, and hope. You have touched my life in so many ways. Thank you for your courageous gift of faith and life. I’m looking forward to the day that we meet again.
❤️🙏
Jackie, I’ve never seen anyone articulate this journey, especially as beautifully as you have. My heart is with you and your family and wishes for a peaceful journey that brings more joy that you can imagine.
Thank you 🙏
Ride the crest of life’s waves my friend …. glory awaits you.
❤️🙏
Thank you! I’ve learned from you. Mostly the word Empathy! I had it – just never knew it. I live and act differently now.
I love your insights and veiwpoints. As always!
I hold you in a special place as you are “the one” that was my first “patient” when i agreed to learn more about people living in damaged homes with mold-illness. The “expert” had a lot to learn – and you helped me open up to learning from these patients.
I send my best to your family – I’ve had the pleasure of meeting them all and knowing thiings others don’t get to learn. You are a great mom to them. But they know this…
Your trip will be awesome I’m certain!
All my love, Scott…
❤️🙏😘
Your love is eternal. Our love for you is never ending. It’s not goodbye but until we meet again. Your courage and faith and emotional strength inspire us all to live more fully, be more grateful and show more empathy. May peace and comfort fill your soul my friend. So much love for you and your whole family.
❤️🙏😘
You are eternal and you are magical. You are leaving us all better than you found us. You will always be lodged in our hearts and souls while you adventure forward and help plan the big party when we are all together again. Love, love, love.
Love you
Jackie,
You are in my prayers each day. This writing is a gift.
You are an amazing person and your ability to share this journey so openly is something we can all treasure.
God speed and love,
Ginger R.
❤️🙏
Thinking of you every day and wishing you peace, comfort, and a few more laughs. You are leaving a remarkable legacy
Thank you JR
Jackie, I’m printing and keeping this…for when (in a decade or so) I need your thoughtful and insightful help? advice? counsel? preparing for what comes next, which I simply can’t/don’t think/believe is final.
I hope it helps
Jackie ~ I love and savored every word of this! So much more of a blessing coming this way than I could muster in your direction. As I read and reread I will be thinking of you and your family while sending prayers and good energy for the journey❤️
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I’m continually thankful to have been allowed a view into your exceptional journey. I continue to pray but understand that God’s plans for you are His alone. But you are inspirational. May God’s love fill you and your family and grant you all peace.
🙏❤️
jackie. i for
to
know you iberia the years but not nearly as much as so
e
of the other commentators. however, equally blessed.
all
i can convey is an amazing blend from
you of braver and leadership thank you. hope
very much to be equal and see you on “the other side”
Thank you 🙏
…”Eye has not seen, nor ear ever heard nor has it ever entered into the heart of people what God has prepared for those who love him”….
Love, peace, and a huge hug, Jackie!
fr. Brian
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You are so loved. I am thankful that you’ve kept writing and also that you are making space to feel and do what you need to do. Holding you call close with a wish for peace of mind and clarity of heart. xo
Xo
Writing this is such a gift to so many people. I have used your letters to bring alternative ideas to functional medicine physicians, and have decided to co-chair the Sideman Cancer Center leadership council, to make sure the lessons you have shared from your journey are not forgotten or lost, I am on my own Journey, and it may or may not help me, but it has and will help others.
Thanks for sharing
Sounds like just the right work
Dearest Jackie- I’m in awe of your grace and thankful to God our paths crossed here on earth. You are absolutely right about our Creator God;He is the author of creation and all that is good & beautiful. The journey here is coming to an end, but wherever “there” is, is eternal. Continued prayers of peace for you and your family. Until we meet again my beautiful friend.
😘🙏
I love your insight, your heart, your way of giving of yourself to all of us. I touched on the similarities of aging and dying of cancer or any terminal disease. I understand your journey but from an aging perspective. I catch myself feeling fear of the end here. Your experiences and feelings are so touching to me and gives me a confirmation of a continued journey. You have so much more to give and do…God needs you sooner. Thank you Jackie.
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Jackie – I don’t have the vocabulary to adequately express and acknowledge the power and sensitivity of your words. But I am grateful that your journey is chronicled for all of us to revisit when we need to find our own strength and comfort.
Much love to you and John and the kids. And Rocky.
🙏❤️
Jackie your words are so beautiful. I’ve had daily conversations with your mom these past couple of weeks. She is more proud of you than you can possibly imagine! She loves you so very much, but you know that. I think it gives her comfort, knowing that you and your dad will be together. She misses him so much but she is such a strong woman…. Now I see where you get this strength!
Thank you Jackie, for all your words of wisdom, strength and courage, inspiration and love❤️
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Jackie, Beautiful and thoughtful words, as usual. There is so much thought and depth to every essay of yours. You have shared such profound insights and will be greatly missed by so many. I hope you enjoy your celestial trip and we will be able to connect again on another plane. Much love to you and your family.
Thank you❤️
Jackie.
I think of you each day and pray that the journey continues to to be a good one.
With love and respect. For your wisdom and generous spirit .
Jo
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Jackie,
Thank you for all the wisdom and love. I am so grateful to you for these reflections. You have opened my eyes to many things. I pray that your journey is full of “all the things” that matter to you most. And may your work be fruitful. You are a treasure.
Thank you ❤️
I hope you do a lot of flitting between loved ones, and I’m sure they’ll think of that too. Big hugs 🤗
❤️
Jackie, you have always been an inspiration for me; and as you describe your biggest trip, you fill me with pride. You will always remain in my heart and give me the strength and optimism to overcome the challenges that come from life on this earth. But most importantly, when the time comes for my own biggest trip. Thank you for being such a special friend.
Thank you 🙏
Jackie, reading this brought both tears and smiles. Your words, your wisdom, your love….and the lessons you are giving so many. Thank you for being you….Lisa Camp
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Jackie, I went on a beautiful sunset hike on the Hudson River today and was thinking of you just as I saw your email. The beautiful sun was slowly setting over the river, and all the smells and sounds were of nature tucking in for the winter. But of course springtime will come again – just as your powerful influence will continue to inspire and motivate the many, many people who love you.
I hope you know how we all are grateful for your revelatory words. We know how terribly we will miss you, but we are confident that you will embark on your big adventure surrounded by light and love. I’m not sure what waits for us in the next life, but is it too much to ask that “Hail to the Victors” is playing at some point?! Had to throw in a little Michigan humor there…
Sending loads of hugs and Ann Arbor memories!
❤️❤️❤️
Jackie, you have touched so many people throughout your life. I believe your journey with illness and to your final trip has left a legacy for others including myself and my family to be inspired and to use as a road map for our future. We are truly blessed to have you and your words to always remember the impact that you have had.
You are truly timeless and your strength and grace is a blessing.
Love, Lee Ann
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Thank you for teaching me, Jackie.
Your words are brave and inspiring. We all fear what you have gone through. There is so much to learn.
Yes, there is!
Thank you for letting me into your world and sharing your wisdom and curiosities. I’m letting it seep in and open about what inspiration comes. When I think of you, I’ll continue to feel love surrounding all of you.
🙏❤️
You are a gift to this world, Jackie. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with all of us.
🙏❤️
Jackie, you are beyond remarkable. Your faith is inspirational, your spirit beautiful.
I’m grateful to know you.
God shared you with us.
Thank you, Tom
Jackie….when we first met, I had no idea that you would be my mentor in this terrible disease. You have shown me how to live more fully and how with incredible grace and beauty….how to go home to the Father’s loving arms. Thank you for your honesty and eloquence. I will live every day I am given even more boldly because of your example. And if my journey should end on the road you have already walked…I thank you for foraging ahead and leaving me the map. 🙏🏼💙😊
💙🙏
Jackie and John, The McMahons are thinking and praying for you both. Jackie, we appreciate hearing from you. You continue to be in the thoughts of many. Sending love, strength, faith and peace to you both — and of course, to Sophie and Grant. Love, Megan and Mike
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Jackie, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from you. Wishing you much peace, comfort, love and light…. Nan
Thank you, Nan
Godspeed
Thank you
So profoundly beautiful, Jackie. As always. I love your spirit. PEACE & PRAYERS for an amazing adventure. I wholeheartedly agree with your philosophy. You are an incredible inspiration and you have made a significant impact on my life – through your words and knowing Sophie.
Thank you
You are a treasure. A pot at the end of the rainbow. And I am so grateful to have found you to call a friend. Go with love.
Thank you, Chuck
Jackie, I’m a friend of your Mom’s and a retired nurse. Professionally I’ve watched this journey many times . It’s not easy . Thanks for sharing.
Ty🙏
You continue to amaze and inspire me (and others) with your fierce candor and open heart.
The question is – is your seatbelt on?
Yep
Arms up in the air
Jackie, the way you share and live and see this existence-wow! And you have cultivated that in your kiddos so clearly—so ballsy of them to go forward with their lives! Whoa!
We love you and your brilliance. I love that John’s foot massages do the trick. I am lapping up the mysticism/ connection/ liminal space of now and your next trip. I will always find you in a batch of Lucky Nuts.
Love and peace and comfort and joy, Jane and Brian
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Jackie,
I wish that your journey to the Astral World is smooth and that your experience on astral planes is exhilarating. Your journey on earth has been inspiring to live and love.
Love and Peace – Rohini
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Alas it’s true that our bodies are not immortal. However, many many people are better for your time here and through your words and actions, for long thereafter. I count myself among the lucky✌️.may we all live a bit fuller by your example.
Ty🙏
Thank you Jackie for the profound journey you have shared, with such candor, wisdom, humor and dignity. Your words are a comfort to me as I travel to be with my mother Sachi who is also transitioning. I think where ever beautiful souls go you may run into her.
I was just thinking about you. I hope your mom’s transition is as peaceful as possible. No doubt she will take comfort in your company. I would love to meet her. Then much later when it’s your turn to join us, we can finally have that dance.
Jackie,
I have followed your journey with awe. You have inspired me and so many others to live and love with more intention and authenticity. Selfishly, I have not posted because I did not have the words. I finally realized that you are one of the most generous and authentic (and least selfish) people I have had in my orbit and that waiting for words is, well, not very generous or smart. I want to thank you for being you and you and your family (including Rocky) for sharing you with all of us. You gave me a much needed dose of empathy with a side of tough love that I needed a ways back. It sticks with me to this day. I have to confess that when I read the title I thought you might be dabbling in psychedelics, but you don’t need them to have what will be a mind-blowing, beyond your wildest imagination action journey to a place filled with love, beauty, and those who are waiting for you. Godspeed!
Ann-Marie
Thank you Anne-Marie. I did actually do an amazing mushroom trip last year with the help of a guide, which felt like preparation and context for this next step. It was all good.
As I’ve attempted to start this message a number of times, I have been reminded of the limitations of human words but also the boundless love and gratitude that exist beyond the scope of our description. I wish words like “thank you” could better channel those feelings, however, I feel like it’s the best phrase we’ve come up with so far. Thank you for your generosity, your grace, your inspiration, your model for empathy, your emotional honesty, and for so many other things you’ve shared along the way; truly a role model in many ways. Until we meet again, I’ll look for you in the sunshine, in the first birds that return in spring, the smiles on the faces of people making music, and all the other bringers of joy and light in this world. May you have a blessed transition; you’ll be in my love and prayers.
PS:
I’ll keep an eye out for Sophie 🙂
The biggest gift for me 🙏
Thanks so much Andrew ❤️
You’ve been such the travel guide for me in life through your posts but during a difficult professional time. Your loving touch will never be forgotten. I truly can’t wait to continue the journey with you one day where time and trip planning don’t get in our way. What a gift to the world that you are and always will be.
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Jackie, you give me courage and hope for the future. I too believe it will be a remarkable journey. Know I’m praying for you and your family every single day. With love and blessings, Tracey
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Peace be with you Jackie. ❤️
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My warmest wishes for continued comfort and peace in the days ahead. Looking to the journey ahead, I hope for all the experiences you have envisioned and more. If you’d give my Dad a hug, I’d be most grateful I will continue to send my prayers to you and yours. Until we meet again, Dean
I hope I do get to meet your dad and will hug him. Thank you, Dean ❤️😘
All the grace and blessings to you, Jackie. May your travels be incomprehensibly beautiful. 🙏-n-❤️
I am so blessed to have gotten to meet you through our works. You are an amazing person. I pray for you and your family often.
Ty🙏
Thank you for continuing to share and teach along your journey. Your incredible. ability to learn and then share that knowledge is truly part of your legacy. Wishing peace and rest to you and your family.
Ty🙏
Thank you so much for the article. It was lovely. We lost our 33 yr daughter this year to cancer. Much about what you share rings so very true
She was so young
I’m so sorry
Too many of us
Glad this resonated ❤️
Dearest Jackie. You continue to inspire. We will all take this journey, but certainly not with the wisdom and grace you share with us. I have started reading this at least 3 times and finally on this beautiful Sunday morning I had the strength to finish reading it all. I love you and your family and have felt that love in return. I continue to pray for you all and ask repeated why He is not giving us a small miracle that we so desperately request. I know you will see the light and you have imbedded a part of your soul in me, I too will look for a visit in my dreams. You are a blessing. 💕
Love you
Thank you 🙏❤️
May you know peace and grace.
Ty🙏
Thank you for making this viewable to someone that doesn’t know you but feels as if she does. This is beautiful and important, your impact and legacy are so beautiful.
Thank you ❤️
Jackie,
Hoping you have a beautiful and peace journal. Hugs from the Virgin Family
Ty🙏
I heard you speak at John Carroll’s commencement this year and was so inspired by you. I have followed your blog since then. Thank you for sharing your journey, what strength and positivity you have shared with all those fortunate to have crossed paths with you along the way. You continue to inspire, even during your rest. Praying for you and your family.
Ty🙏
Jackie – you are phenomenol. Dont know how to express my gratitude for all that you have shared.
Bon voyage,
Aileen
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You have shown me so much my dear friend. I pray for your grace, drive, and eloquence. You have set a standard…You shave shown us all the currency of empathy. Love you.
Thank you
Love you
Hi,
You spoke at my graduation this year at John Carroll and I really resonated with your words. I am currently a counseling grad student at Cleveland state. The topics you addressed relating to empathy, emotions, and holistic healing comforted me in this society that does not prioritize many of those. It has been easy to feel isolated and misunderstood by the world around me, but you gave me that reassurance I needed in such a nerve-racking time such as graduation that my passions serve both me and the world around me. That I can make an impact by continuing to follow my purpose. Thank you.
With much love and light,
Ellen
Yes! Go do your good work. Thank you
Dear Jackie,
I have been so out of the loop in my retirement that I just recently learned about your illness and your passionate farewell. I simply want to thank you for your life well-lived and the imprint you have left. One can never know the full extent of the ripples of our existence but yours will surely go on and on. I wish I had known you more but I am grateful for the interactions we had. Godspeed.
Thank you 🙏
Jackie, I don’t think you have to ask whether you’ll level up in the future … the wisdom you are sharing here, in a future book and the letters for later are the essence of leveling up! And you have done so poetically. You have always been a shining star and will continue to be. You have all of our prayers.
Ty🙏
Dear Jackie,
I have always felt privileged to have had our lives touch for a time. You’ve always shown with a bright, warm light whenever I have seen you (at Onaway and beyond). And your wise words throughout your journey are a loving gift to all of us who will continue to learn from you.
Thank you for your honesty and compassion.
Love,
Paula
Thanks so much Paula. The feeling is mutual. Love, Jackie
Jackie i am a friend or business friend of John you do not know me but i have read your words in the past year and your expression of feelings rank with Shakespeare and Ghandi with a little of the inevitabilty of Hemingway
i have studied the afterlife, read many of the books and actually learned hypnosis so i could explore what might be
i am sad for what you will miss but there is a mountain of people who will be missing you and i am sure that wherever you are going you will find that mountain and the clarity and bravery of your of your expressions about life will lead everyone to you whereever you are
i wish i had gotten to know you in these last 8 years i have known John what you have shared in writing is incredible
jeff cole
Of course I have known you through John, but can see how wonderful it would have been to connect directly. Thank you for sharing.
Ah Jackie, from an old friend from a long time ago. Words escape me, but my memories of your smile and wit and kindness will stay with me (and Gillien). We will all be less without you. Much love. Kingsley
Thanks so much , Kingsley