Friday, February 17, 2012

Happy birthday MOM!

My mother in 1958, age 35








todAAy i AAm grAAteful & thAAnkful

for my mother, Patricia.  She was a wonderful teacher throughout my life, although for many of my (drinking) years I did my best to NOT pay attention.  She was totally understanding and a very compassionate woman.  Her christian beliefs were her foundation. 
She suffered major strokes, in 2001 and 2005.  She never was able to recover from the last one and died 3 years later.  During those 3 years we formed a bond that we had never had before.  My sister and I were her caretakers although she had to live in a home with comprehensive nursing (24 hours/day).

Due to her illness, I learned the importance of leaning on my Higher Power.  Every day before spending time with her, I said a short prayer to my HP to help me be of utmost service to her.  Thsi was something entirely new for me.  It really changed me and brought me closer to God as I understand Him.

Had she lived, today Mom would be 89.  But she was ready to go at the age of 85, having lived a full and complete life.  We talk (well, I talk and she listens) occasionally and I know she's watching over me as I continue to trudge the road.

Happy birthday Mom.


Remain calm, serene, always in command of yourself.
You will then find out how easy it is to get along.

- Paramahansa Yogananda

3 comments:

Syd said...

Such a wonderful post, Dave. I have the same feeling about my mom. She is listening. I know that your mom will be with you, part of you, forever.

Mary Christine said...

Your devotion to your mom speaks volumes about you as a man Dave. All good stuff.

You mom was beautiful - even when she was much older than this photo.

Trailboss said...

Wonderful post for an obviously wonderful woman. Our mothers shared many of the wonderful qualities that makes a good mom. I too talk to my mother and miss her every day. I do believe that someday we will see them again. I hold onto thar faith and will never let it go.