Our “goodbye” and “I love you” whispers were only for us to hear. She physically left this world sixty-one agonizing hours later.
I’ve spent the past three months thinking I would write a blog series on grief, love, and life with a focus on parental loss. I considered paying tribute to Mom using my words and sharing more about her with my subscribers, friends, and followers…but I can’t. I am not ready.
Instead, as this writer struggles to find words, I will focus on remembering to breathe. Someday, I’ll share some of what I’m learning and tell you all about her.
For now, know that God uses us in mysterious ways. Six weeks after Mom died, I was holding the hand of a former pastor as he was about to pass from the exact same thing. God had prepared me to serve others. My heart wasn’t ready, I had yet to accept completely that my one and only mom would never have another word to say to me, but I was oddly prepared to help others even while grieving. I think Mom would have appreciated that.
In these three months, at least five people I know, or who are known by my friends, have had fatal brain bleeds and two others have lost parents. I don’t know what God has planned for me, but I’m starting to see a path with possibilities I never considered.
The series about Mom, death, grieving, and living, will come, but not yet.
I will tell you all about her, but not yet.
Her last flowers died long ago but I couldn't bear to discard them. Her obituary was being written and revised by Dad, but now it's completed. These final steps make it a little more real. She didn't want a memorial service, but we'll be hosting the party she wanted in early summer. Until then, I'm not letting go. I haven't found time for my own grief yet.
Many of you knew her, most of you know me, and a few only know my writing. Mom, you will forever be a part of who I am...that's just how things work!
https://www.pearsonsroseburg.com/obituaries/sharon-ingold
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Take care, and remember, I'm always here to pray for you if you have a need or request.
Lois Lynn
Lois, what an absolute beautiful tribute to your mom. She would be so proud of you. I know, I am. I cannot believe that it is three months now. Still so very new and so raw. I will be here to read all that you are discovering about yourself, how God is leading you, and what did you discover in this grief process? Please know that you continue to be in my prayers now and in the days ahead. You are doing the hard work. Much love to you my friend and thanks so much for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspirational tribute! Excellent job. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful life your Mom had... this obituary really gave a good view of who she was! Thanks for letting us get to know her, too.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate all of the emails I received and the comments here. Many of you relate to losing a parent, and yes, there is something about losing your mom that compares with nothing else in life. I'm sending my love to each and every one of you who contacted me. God certainly has a way of getting our attention and helping us downshift to what's important when life gets to be too much.
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