It is Mother's Day. My mom lived with me the last few years of her life. She had a stroke and lived for six months in a nursing home before she passed away. She was independent and strong willed with a beautiful singing voice and wonderful sense of humor. She was strict in some ways and very nurturing. I always felt safe when I was with her.
It was very challenging when I had to take on the roll of mothering her. There were so many things I missed in her health care, because when I asked her if she took her medicine, she said yes. I had no reason to doubt her words because she was Mom and she was in control. As her health faded, I had to learn many things and begin to ask questions for her safety.
Her life changed drastically when she moved to Texas and left everyone she knew in Arkansas. Her singing talent was evident and she would do mini concerts all around her home town. She never quite recovered from losing her car and becoming dependent on someone else for her needs. I wasn't always understanding and fought a lot of guilt after her death that I hadn't been more aware.
If you are caring for someone and you feel like you are drowning, take a deep breath and remember that nothing lasts forever. This time is a season and when you look back, have good memories. Begin by taking care of yourself and find what you need to become closer to that person who you love. Enjoy something together.
I miss those Saturday trips with mom to her doctor, then to Arby's and Wal Mart. She would get in a cart and when I missed her, I could find her on the candy aisle. Her biggest love was Cheetos and Tootsie Rolls. They were equal in her affections.
Happy Mother's Day!
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