When I was a little girl my mom meant everything to me. She did everything for me. In my teen years I never wanted to admit that I needed her and then in my 20s 30s etc. I was glad to listen to her sage wisdom. Her opinion has always been valued and her approval always desired. Perhaps most of you can relate?
She was a worker all of her life. At the age of 17 she married my dad in Digby Nova Scotia. He was stationed near there during WW2. When the war ended he brought her to Ontario. Away from her family, shy, and living with inlaws who wished they weren't, it was a tuff beginning to married life. Her first job in Ontario, which became her career, was working at Mrs. White's Flower Shop. Here she learned how to design flowers in an atmosphere of love. Mrs. White became like a mother to mom.
Scan forward 67 years and mom is using a walker, sometimes a wheelchair, difficult to understand and in need of support. My role has reversed and now I am caretaking. It is difficult to see her this way. Such a vibrant, energetic woman, who had finally reached a point in her life to enjoy travel, now dealing with Parkinsons.
Okay, I don't want to depress you, sorry. But here's the thing. I'm learning I can do things for someone else I never thought I could. I am learning compassion and to go slower. I am learning that it is so essential to do today and not put off til tomorrow... travel, visits with family, anything at all you've said.. "I'll do that when... I retire.. etc. DO IT NOW! Tomorrow is not guaranteed and your health isn't either.
Just for today, live fully!
Pic.. My mom is on the right in this picture with her sister who has since passed on. My mom was the oldest girl of 9 children!
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