Reading Time: 2min 25sec
This is dedicated to all the mothers of the world.
"Moms will walk a million miles in their lifetime for their children."
My mother died at 85 of Alzheimer's disease. It was a dreadful disease that wiped out her memory, and all the things she held dear. But, how could she not remember, me?
When I cried, she was always there to comfort me. From diapers, bottles, cooking, daycare, discipline, working, buying groceries, doctor, church, elementary, middle, high school, teachers, homework, practice, sports, college, marriage, grandchildren, counselor, to being my best friend.
I wanted her to know how much I love her. I wanted her to hear me say it one more time.
It was a quiet night as she lay in bed with her eyes closed. She hadn't recognized any of us in a while. My sisters and I sat around her bedside.
Mom opened her eyes and said softly, "Kathy, what are you doing here?"
"Mom I've been here every day taking care of you like you took care of us." Kathy asked, "Do you want me to paint your nails and sing you a song?"
Mom slowly nodded. Kathy sang her favorite song, "Soon and very soon–I'm going to see the Lord." Mom looked up at Kathy with a smile and said, "I love you," closed her eyes and died in my sister's arms.
In a strange way, it was like mom waited for us to get there before she passed away.
Mom today, is your 97th birthday, so I'm writing you this letter to tell you how much I love you, and appreciate the wonderful things you did for me. It's a hard life, and I wouldn't have made it without you. If you could see me, you would be proud. I have a new wife, and things have changed quite a bit since you've been gone.
Veronica, who you loved so much, got enchanted by another man and allowed him to ruin our marriage.
I did what I could–to save our marriage, after catching her in the act. I kept a diary of the separation and divorce for 700 days.
After thirteen years, Veronica asked me to forgive her. I can still feel the pain in my heart that ripped us apart.
You always told me to find the good in people, and do what I can to help someone.
I published a book about the marriage–to help bring closure and to let other people, who may be going through the same thing, know they're not alone.
I will always love you mom, for everything you did for me.
You will always be my favorite girl.