Mom

   Mothers are formative people in our lives.  If we are lucky, they are kind and good. They teach us what we need to know so that we can go out into the world and thrive.  They send us with the ability to cook a meal, clean a bathroom, negotiate with difficult people, cuddle our children and be our best selves.  We know with a deep seated certainty that they are in our corner, rooting for us.  Knowing that there is at least one person who loves us for who we are, runny nose and all helps us face whatever comes our way.
   My mother was one of those mothers.  She died about eighteen months ago.  She was ready and it was time.  Yesterday was her birthday.  She would have been seventy-eight.  I miss her.  I suspect that I always will.  I hope her lessons live on in me.  I have tried to pass them on to my children and perhaps they will pass them on their children, that way her grace and love continue to make a difference in the world.
   Thank you 'Neal for your love and support which launched me and supported me always.