Wednesday, April 1, 2015

sigh. Bye Mom.


Many of you know that I've been Mom's helper for the past many years.  Even though she has been in "the home" for the past few years, she still needed me to be her helper.  The person who bought her clothes and personal care products.  The person who watched tv with her.  Read to her.  Brushed her hair just because it made her feel good.  Well, she passed away last Thursday and was buried yesterday.  As much as I would often get frazzled knowing I had to go visit, I am really going to miss having her here.  My brother, brilliant man, read out mom's favorite inspirational message at the service.  I will leave you with that...

Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

© Max Ehrmann 1927

9 comments:

  1. My deepest condolences to you and your family and thank you for those wonderful words.

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  2. Your mom was beautiful. God gave us memory that we might have roses in winter.

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  3. So sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my mother just over a year ago, and like you she was in a home. But we still went out to restaurants and she came home often. I also found it sometimes a hassle to get to the home as I have primary and early high school kids to look after as well as go to work

    I miss her every day. I don't wish her back, but I miss her every day and can look back on a wonderful life and a great time we had together.

    Its a tough time and the real grieving will hit in a few months. I wish you all the best. Take care and thank you for sharing the lovely quote.

    Robyn

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  4. May your memories of your mother be a treasure and comfort to you as you mourn her loss.

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  5. Thinking of you and your family at this time. Your mom will always be near in your heart

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  6. They are the most beautiful words I've read in a long time...and you know Helen I read words of life and wisdom everyday...her memories will get you through everyday one forever at a time...hugs Irene

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  7. Helen,
    Sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.
    Lee

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  8. sorry for your loss Helen and yes you will miss the visits to her home. The message was wonderful. Our thoughts are with you Arlene

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  9. Sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. I lost my Mom two years ago last month and like Robyn I don't wish her back as she's in a better place but still miss her dearly and wish we had more time. Lean on your loved ones during this difficult time they will carry you on the dark days. Sending hugs your way.

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