My Mom |
Also My Mom (Really Kathy's Mom, but I love her like my Mom.) |
My Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Today was brought home the fragility of life and the ephemeral time that we have on this Earth. For a time today Ma Brown was really sick and the very real possibility that her time was complete on the Earth was brought home. When I lost my Mother over 11 years ago now, I didn't think that anyone else would bring up such a well of emotion and sense of loss as had losing your mother in your 30's. I was wrong. When I heard about my mother in laws illness and potentially life threatening surgery and illness, all the sense of loss and love came crashing home. I found myself walling that emotion behind defenses to allow myself to function at my job. In the back of my mind all day were thought of the love, joy, and happy and sad times I shared with both these women whom I consider to be my MOM. Even now the tears well up and the emotion is close to the surface as I contemplate the time not far distant when I will be the Elder generation. When I will be what kids think of as grandparents and the generation that is totally out of touch, but one that loves nonetheless for lack of understanding.
Today as I was brought face to face with the reality of my own mortality, I prayed more fervently, spoke more kindly, thought more clearly, loved more fully, sang more joyously, and thanked God more for the blessings of this life and for having had these two wonderful women in my life to teach me about compassion, joy, and living meaningfully. I am also thankful that, at least for the moment, God has chosen to leave my Mom here for me to learn from for a little while longer. I pray that it is for years to come and that I will be learning life lessons from my Mom for years to come. I hope that today you can take the time to communicate your love and thanks to those who so deeply affected your growing. That you can thank your Father in Heaven for the plan which allows us to enjoy the bonds of family and of love beyond this Earthly Veil. Once again, and probably not for the last time, the Lord has reminded me of how empty the afterlife would be without the bonds of love forged in this life. To spend the Eternities without those people who are most dear to my heart and soul would be a tragedy. Thank God for His Tender Mercies in allowing us to be family for time and all Eternity. My brothers and sisters, I am so thankful that you are a part of my Eternal Family. May this day bring joy and love to your heart.
Brother Carv