[Rita Warren went into a coma March 11 and remained in a coma until March 19. On the day after her stroke, I contacted her, briefly.]
March 12, 2008
Miss Rita, you’re finally getting your wish. Are you nervous about it? Scared?
As you know, I had thought I’d settled it all in my mind years ago, but then the guys began arguing with my concepts, and now I don’t know what to believe and what not to believe.
I know. But at this stage, calm faith and resolution is pretty nearly everything, isn’t it?
The closest analogy I can think of is being inside an asthma attack. You are not in control and it takes you along whether you are ready for it or not.
Yes. Runaway freight train. I can imagine that. Patience, and knowledge that at some point I’d be through it. Are you still on this side, or have you moved over?
Still here so far. It may be a while.
Can you open yourself more fully to the part of yourself outside of time and space?
That is what the prolonged departure process accomplishes, sometimes.
It builds a bridge.
How can we help you?
Do what you have done for years – hold me in your loving energy. It is the most powerful form of support, more powerful than any ritual or technique.
[Perhaps as illustration, this memorial from one of Rita’s loving and beloved students:]
Celebration of Rita Warren’s Life
March 22, 2008
By Kathleen M. Heide
Rita has been a part of my life for 30 years. During this time, I have known her to be
- A wise mentor
- A gifted teacher
- A devoted and loving friend
- A principled and genuine human being
- A fellow traveler
- A spiritual guide
- A good listener
- A gracious host
I will always remember the great times we shared, the deep conversations we had, and the ideas she shared with me. She changed my worldview by introducing me to I-Level, the Course in Miracles, the Monroe Institute, and her friends.
I believe that Rita is still with all of us. She resides within me and in the minds and hearts of all those who have known and loved her. Rita is on a different plane or dimension. She will continue to share her light. She loved her family, friends, and students unconditionally and deeply.
I am reminded of an old Gaelic prayer. I will modify it slightly to capture Rita’s words and essence. The prayer goes like this.
Grieve not…
Nor speak of me with tears…
But laugh
And talk of me as though I am beside you.
Because I am
I loved you so…
And I will continue to do so
Now on a different level
Where I am available to help you
Whenever you call upon me.
Thank you for this reminder.