Her death has brought about a time of contemplation (which is probably quite common) in my life, and I haven't felt much like getting back into the daily tasks of life. The pull to continue with this blog has felt a little like the plant sitting on my window-sill, calling me to feed and water it and get on with life.
I haven't known how to get the process of writing going again, so I decided to start with where my thoughts are at the moment. So if you'll forgive this departure from gardening for a moment...
My Mom was an amazingly, strong, positive woman who taught me to enjoy life, and to squeeze every drop out of it. She had a pretty difficult time during her life, but she almost always had a smile and a laugh even when things were at their worst.
She was an expert markswoman receiving numerous awards for her shooting abilities. She enjoyed her shooting so much so, that she was back on the shooting range two days after having given birth to my sister.
Everyone who knew her, and especially those she spent time with in her last days were surprised at the measure of strength and positivity that she held right up to the end.
Thinking about the life she lived, makes me realise how much of our attitude and outlook is based on a choice that we make in every moment, in spite of our circumstances or situation. I 've also realised the need to prioritise the things that I value the most, and to try to keep my focus on the things that are most important. I hope I can savor every moment of life by a similar measure that my mother has set for me.
11 comments:
Beautiful post, Ross. I'm so sorry for your loss. Your mum sounds remarkable - we could all learn from her example. Thoughts.
Hey, thanks Viv...
Im so sorry Ross.
My aunt passed away last month too. She has leukemia. Remembering my cousin, I have an idea about what you're going thought. It's so sad, but what she was and your good memories with her, is what really matters.
Ross, what a lovely tribute to your mother. You were fortunate to have someone so strong and resilient in your life. And the photo is amazing - gritty and glamorous at the same time. When I first glanced at the post, I thought it was a stock photo of a fifties movie star.
Thank you for sharing.
I'm sorry to hear. That's quite a photo to remember her.
I'm very sorry to hear about your mother -- she sounds like a fantastic person, and what a smile! You'll be in my prayers.
Thanks Henrique, sorry to hear about your Aunt too...
Susan, my mother would have loved that - a fifties movie star!
Ryan, its been quite an experience finding all these old photos that I haven't seen in years - they bring back good memories.
Thanks Chookie I appreciate that...
Only just read this post. I'm sorry for your loss. A cliche, but true. Your tribute is lovely. The fates blessed you with wonderful memories of an incredible woman, and lessons well learned.
Thanks Alice...
A beautiful tribute, Ross, and I agree with Susan's description: "gritty and glamorous". I feel for you; I am now at the preparatory stage: my mother who turned 80 days after you wrote your post, has been diabetic for 44 years. All systems are vulnerable, and a simple fall can push her over the edge. But she is brave and cheerful and you never hear complaint, even though, due to very sensitive kidneys, she takes no painkillers for her various aches.
You are on the early stages of a long journey. Try to see think of that journey as part of the richness of your life. Looking at your own blogs and those you subscribe to, your life IS rich and intense and I have no doubt she approves.
Take care - Jack
Hi Jack, thanks for the kind words...I hope your mom stays strong.
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