~ Maurice Chevalier
Today is my mother’s birthday. Oddly enough, I went to a funeral today for a man who used to come to my parish. As his daughter gave the eulogy, I could not help but think what a fantastic job she did at honouring her dad. One day one of my siblings or I will have this task of speaking at our parents’ funerals.
Two days ago, my parents celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. My dad is a week younger than my mom and will join her in turning 78. My parents are not very affectionate people but there is light-hearted banter in their lives. When I read their cards to each other, I see that there is still love between them.
When I was visiting my aunt and uncle in BC a few weeks back, I asked them how they met. I swear my uncle blushed like a schoolboy as he reminisced. My aunt used to go to the gas station he worked at and ask for only $2.00 worth of gas so that she would have to come back again before too long. They are obviously still in love.
I look at my mom and dad and do see glimpses of that. Fifty-three years is a long time to be married and to see sparks of love is hopeful. My mom is a different person than my dad which cannot have been easy for either of them.
I learned a few things about Mom while I visited her brother. She was a daddy’s girl—just like me. For some reason, that surprised me. She seemed to always get her way in the family, according to her younger brother. He said she always thought about herself—and it was always about her. That made me chuckle because that is the mother I know. Once in a blue moon, though, she surprises everyone by moving beyond herself. Redemption is always possible.
Today I wish her God’s blessings.
Peace,
Suzanne
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