Still Here

Mom, you worked hard all your life
to make my life better.
It hasn't always worked, but you've tried.
You bent your back, trying.
Some things are just beyond our control.

I remember you as Mommy, as I was growing up,
Always taking time to explain things carefully,
Teaching me to read,
Taking us to the beach, the farm, the museum, everywhere very interesting!

You managed a single-parent home, when you and Dad split up, early on.
You weren't too proud to share some of the parenting with Grandma and Grandpa -- an excellent choice!
You were a working mother,
Still spending time with her children.

We had evenings, we had weekends and summer vacations.
A leisurely breakfast, time in the kitchen, time lounging indoors,
Guidance learning household chores,
And how was our visit with Daddy?

Now you need help, more than me,
And who is there for you?
I wish I could return even a tenth of the efforts you've made for me!
I have little strength,
But I am trying to make your life better,
Even a little easier,
A little happier,
Less painful.

How much is within my power?
Not as much as I would like,
But I am giving from my heart.
We talk on the phone,
I visit when I can,
Do what I can.
I am praying for your healing,
by the tender mercy of God,
In the Holy Name of Jesus,
Amen!

I am remembering a woman
who worked day and night.
Yes, you could take a break,
Drink coffee and laugh.
These days, coffee upsets your insides; mine too!
And there isn't much that amuses you;
It's hard when you're feeling so much pain.

I remember a woman who came to clean my college dorm room,
Before I moved into it.
Back then, I thought you were nuts.
"Is this crazy woman with Pine Sol and paper towels really my mother?"
I had no clue about where germs can hide.
But you were there, protecting me.
Two sets of sheets, two sets of towels, and plates that would last four years without breakage.

I know a woman who talks to me about saving money,
And she still does.
You may not be able to walk,
But you can talk,
And still, you're trying to protect me.

I remember a mother who had two children,
Not just one.
Then one day, death came and snatched my brother away.
And that was a blow that changed you forever --
It changed me too.

We move forward, we move on.
"Are you sure you want to get married?"
"Yes, Mom, I am."
You watched me get married, and helped make that day so amazing!
Oh, the reception hall! So beautiful!
We visited one after another,
Until we found just the right one.
The dress! You found a seamstress
to adjust the near-perfect gown.
The veil! The shoes! The purse!
The showering with gifts; lingerie!
Refreshments in the church!
You were there every step of the way.

My brother was still with us then,
But not for long.
You were both there by my side, once.
You walked me down that aisle.
Now you, Mom, have grown to love my husband.
The road hasn't been easy, but we're sure we want to be on it,
And you're trying to be there for both of us.
Isn't family love a precious thing!

Our family became smaller with time,
Yet we are still there for each other.
Mom, I'm still here for you.