I am so grateful for this lovely day. A few days ago, I was
crying by my parents’ grave, dreading this holiday. How could I celebrate
without Mom? But, Mom reminded me of everything I did have. I had extra hugs
from my girls all week who were both moved by the season, and a little worried
about me being sad. I had the loving, watchful eye of my husband, ready to
swoop in and hold me as I cried, to take the girls so I could be alone, or to
crack a joke to make me laugh – whatever I seemed to need. I had my sisters and
brothers, all feeling the same loss, all supporting each other through it.
Christmas was a slice of love and beauty in what had
otherwise been a difficult month. I miss my Mom and Dad, and more so during the
holidays. But on Christmas, I felt their love more than their absence.
Merry Christmas everyone.
(My Slice of Life is posted a little late, but you can read more here.)
Oh Laura, thanks for this heartfelt post. It's bittersweet to celebrate holidays without loved ones. My daughter held me Christmas morning as I cried, and my mom has been gone for 22 Christmases.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ramona. I've been thinking a lot about how we "adult orphans" are expected to quickly recover from our loss. But, no matter how old you are, losing your mother is life-changing.
DeleteI hope you and your daughter enjoyed sharing memories, and a good cry.
"I felt their love more than their absence." What a beautiful statement. Just the hope all of us who celebrate while missing special ones need in our hearts.
ReplyDelete