On this Monday following yesterday’s official Mother’s Day celebration, I find myself in an even more thankful (and reflective) mood. Last October, some of you may recall my mom suffered a life threatening condition that resulted in her being placed in hospice. It’s true that Sam and I love our hospice work, but seeing your mom as a patient was not our idea of the kind of pet therapy we envisioned. For a week, our family sat by her side, shared stories, laughed and cried about the spot we faced. All of my life I’ve known this remarkable woman who had ‘seen it all’ and endured so much living through the bombings of World War II Germany. When doctors initially gave her the prognosis, she immediately quipped, “Well damn it, I wasn’t finished yet.” And clearly she meant it❣️
After being told she had probably only 48 hours to live, my mom rallied and survived. She was one of only a very select few to have “failed” at hospice. And so, 7 months later here she was celebrating Mother’s Day brunch with 3 of her 5 grown children around the table. Can I just say, I continue to be in awe of what this exceptional human being has accomplished with grace, poise, intelligence and humor. Thank you for all you’ve done for us, for all you’ve taught us and for being a special kind of inspiration to the family. We are so very grateful for each and every one of your 85+ years. In this day and age of shallow clichés, this one has resonated over these past few days with enormity. To the world you are a mother, but to your family you are our world. We all are so very grateful that you continue to be with us and we treasure every single minute with your presence. We love you to the moon and back, Mom and know that Sam sends puppy kisses.
Here’s hoping your Mother’s Day was equally as wondrous.
