Happy Birthday, Mama

(The last week or so, Mom has done pretty well. She's continuing to experience typical  discomforts that are normal. But she's alert an we are enjoying our time with her each day. We count each day as a gift from the Lord.)

So today is Mom's birthday. Wow. This was supposed to be one of those difficult "firsts" you have to go through after the death of one you love. BUT the Lord has given us all these months we didn't expect to continue to enjoy her presence. Gratefulness fills my heart......

You know those folks who, when you are asked to describe them, you just sit and ponder what to say? Not because there's nothing to say, but because there is so much! That's my mama. Where to start? What to include? What to leave out? It would seem ridiculous to try to list everything about her for which I am thankful. I could go on forever. She is not perfect. She would tell you so herself. We all know none of us are. But she's just what I've needed. A perfect fit for my life. And I've kinda gotten used to having her around......

So, if I'm not going to list all her qualities, what would I consider the one thing about her that makes her who she is, for which I am most grateful? Hmmm......(long pause, much contemplation...) I think as I consider all the qualities that make her a great mom, the best mom, the one I consider at the top of the list is her unselfish availability to me. Kinda like the Lord. I knew. I ALWAYS knew, no matter what, that whenever I had a need, she was available to me. She was available to do whatever she could in any capacity.  She was never too busy. For as long back as I can recollect, in as many situations as I can remember, for whatever circumstance might present itself, she was ready to do whatever she could to support and encourage me.

Sometimes she stepped into the ring with me in problems I'd gotten myself into. Sometimes she came along side me when life in general was happening and I just needed moral support. Many times it was just to lend a loving and supportive ear. No matter where I was, or how far away, she would reach out and make it better.

This new normal I am about to experience is life changing. There is no one to fill the void she will leave. I am thankful for the ache that will be there. For its very existence reminds me of the years of blessing the Lord has given me........Happy Birthday Mama.