My Momma taught me thousands of important lessons during the 22 years we spent together. I’d have to say that the top three lessons learned involved being kind, working hard and always having a sense of humor.
I’ve read hundreds of grief articles, advice columns and books. All of them say something along the lines of “life will never be normal, you’ll just find a ‘new normal’.” Engulfed in an indescribable anger and bitterness for the first year after my mom’s death, I cringed every time I read such lines.
How was I supposed to find a “new normal” when the best thing in my life was taken from me because of a stupid disease?
I’m happy to say that in the last six months or so, I have actually found a “new normal.” A normal I think/hope she’d be proud of.
This is not to say I don’t miss her, love her and curse cancer every day. Believe me, she is the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning and the last thing I think of while dozing off to sleep. I’m just finally capable of realizing that our bond has not been broken just because she isn’t physically here anymore. She still “shows up” in my life on a daily basis. A true testament of a mother’s love.
A mother’s love for her own children can never be replicated.
With that said, I have learned that there are people who go out of their way to reach out to children who are not biologically theirs.
These people are kind, hard working and usually employ a sense of humor. I am beyond fortunate for all of these people…. especially the ones in my life. The ones who have expressed their understanding of my suffering, offered encouragement and have done their part in reminding me of amazing (and usually comical) memories of my mom in order to honor and remember the person she was, and I’m sure still is, in heaven.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness. I am forever thankful for you. I hope y’all are treated like the true heroes you are, today and every day. Happy Mother’s Day!
For more essays on Mother’s Day, read here.
(Image: WeHeartIt)
