Charles Burchfield, Journals, January 22, 1965

Jan. 22 – Friday –

Thinking about Sir Winston’s last illness as he lies in a coma. Altho unable to move or show signs of consciousness, can anyone be positive that his mind is not working? And working clearly?

Pursuing the idea further, could one control the kind of thoughts? If so, dying under such circumstances could be a very delightful process. In such a situation, after I had made my final peace with god I think I should, if time allowed, go over one by one all the special moments I can remember as a child on down to the present.

What a list!

A boy walking along a dusty road in the hot sunshine – barefoot, a big straw hat on my head, a pile of wild raspberries in one hand – my hang-dog Roger, pattering at my heels, his pink tongue hanging out – thinking to myself “Won’t Mama be pleased with all the berries I found?” Anticipating a drink of cold water.

Bending over a new (to him) wild-flower plant (Greek Valerian) which he has decided to dig up and transplant to his wild-flower garden – breathing a prayer of thanks to god for this event.

The first kiss of ones beloved –
Beholding the first baby, and each in succession, the miracle of birth never grows less.

And so on and so on.

Charles Burchfield, Journals, January 22, 1965