When I was pregnant with my third son, I went off on some retreat that was supposed to be relaxing. But it wasn’t. I’d tell you about it, but I’ll spare you that horror. But, I’ll just say I was 8 months pregnant, I had a UTI infection, and they wouldn’t let me take a nap. And they claim to be “God loving.” My husband and boys brought me my antibiotics — and they snuck me in a snickers bar with it. The “package” had to be delivered by someone else. Anyway. The one good thing that came out of it was this. Each participant had to have a sponsor. This person was responsible for going to the particpant’s family and collecting letters of encouragement to be shared during the retreat. I have one from my Mom. This was a few years before she died so suddenly — but as I read it now, it sounds exactly like something she would have written if she knew she were about to die. It’s a treasure. (And no, she didn’t know I was having an awful time when she wrote it.)Â
Dear Susie,
I’m so glad that you were able to attend this retreat, and I’m praying for you to have a special time.
Don’t worry about the boys; I know Dave will take care of them.
I just want you to know what a special person you are and how proud of you I am. I admire your strength and you’re determination. You have accomplished a lot in your lifetime and have overcome some very trying times.
But most of all, I am so proud of the Mother that you have become. It shows. I never have to worry about what will become of them because of the love you are giving them. They are well adjusted and know that they are loved. And know that you are loved by them. I watch you and the kids together and there is a strong beyond between you and the boys.
Your Grandma Wren would be so proud of you. I wished that she could have lived to see you as a Mother.
I with you the best this weekend, but even more I wish you the best life. You deserve the best. I also wish for you and Dave to have a good marriage. Dave is a good guy. You must be very proud of him. He’s a good Dad.
Again, enjoy this weekend, and try not to miss the boys too much!!
Love ya,
Mom
You made me tear up at work! That is beautiful. But its so evident just from always checking out your blog the kind of Mom you are. It’s that kindred spirit that draws me back here all the time!
Bittersweet, but lovely post Susie.
Hope your birthday is filled with many blessings.
~Julie~
Happy Birthday, SusieJ. This is a good day indeed. The world (and the blogosphere) is a much better place with your spirit and energy in it.
Happy Happy Birthday Susie! You were also born in July 🙂 I believe we have strong personalities – those which assure our parents that we will be ok even after they are gone.
How nice that you have letters like that to remind you of her love for you 🙂 She must be so proud of you and happy that you have such a beautiful family.
Again, Happy Birthday 🙂
What a wonderful keepsake from your mother.
Happy Birthday!
Missed your birthday, Susie! Hope it was a lovely one!
What a beautiful letter from your mom. I wish my mom and I had a better relationship.
I’m sorry you lost your mom so suddenly. I’m also sorry you didn’t receive more comments on this post. Sometimes people just don’t know what to say that’s appropriate, I’m guessing.
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