Hi, mom — I know it’s been a while since I called.
No excuses, it’s all on me.
Just so you know, I think of you every day and wonder if you’ve been keeping up with everything you’ve missed down here since you’ve been gone. The rapid speed of global warming, social and civil unrest brewing around the world, a pandemic that swept our planet without remorse, disconnecting family, friends, and society — changes in our lives you never had to experience in corporeal form.
I wanted to tell you how thankful I am that you’re watching over me — guiding me, nudging me, and sending the occasional push in the right direction. Especially as I grow older and find myself still questioning my purpose and path, and hoping I make you proud.
When I’m feeling lonely, I sense your hand on my arm and the deep love in my heart. In my most difficult moments, when I don’t think I have the strength to push through, I hear your encouraging words in my ears - reminding me I still have much to accomplish, and many others to help.
And that’s when I remember the quiet sacrifices you always made.
Throughout your life, you patiently gave your time and attention to your children so we could grow up and live full lives, carrying the values and lessons of our youth to future generations.
Your influence has touched those you’ve never met — the many branches of our family tree spreading and growing as they learn how to become decent human beings through the example you set, and the stories we share.
You’re never absent from my thoughts, and I’ve learned to fill the empty voids in my life with your laughter, your smile, and your generous spirit — especially when my distracted mind attempts to take me in a less-than-desirable direction.
Thank you for keeping me safe from threatening storms, erratic drivers, and poor decisions.
I know you spread your angel winds around me when danger draws near, or my patience begins to wane, or my aging mindset attempts to overshadow my positive thoughts. And I close my eyes and whisper a few words of gratitude that you’ll always be at my side, listening closely for any sign of distress.
Anyway, that’s all I had on my mind.
Thanks for picking up — I know you’re busy and have lots to do. Give my love to dad and let him know I’ll be calling him next week. I could really use his advice on a few things that have been troubling me.
I have to go back to work now and take care of a few errands and chores. Don’t worry about me, I’m doing okay. I’ll send you a little prayer before I go to sleep — words I wish could be delivered in person, like the last time we were together and I cradled your hand in mine in a tearful goodbye.
I hope you don’t mind if I keep in touch this way. It helps to talk with you and listen to your reassuring voice in my head. Because in these trying and difficult times, I need you more than ever.
In health & happiness,
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Jill Reid is the author of Real Life, Discover Your Personal Truth, Life in Small Doses, and Please God, Make Me A Writer. Her books, videos, and newsletter explore life, relationships, self-improvement, health, and personal success strategies for working through the challenges of everyday life.
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