I’ve been missing my mom fiercely lately.
And though the two-year anniversary of her passing looms, I don’t think its actually the date which triggers. (Have I mentioned how much I dislike the word & even concept of “triggering”? Oh well, it seems to fit here, I suppose.)
I blame Bernie Sanders, of course.
Mom “felt the Bern” pretty hardcore back in 2016. Dare I say she loved Bernie almost as much as she loved Barack Obama.
Well, almost, ha.
I recall Bernie canvassers dropping by her house to have ridiculously long conversations about the need for politics to be fair– for opportunities, college, and healthcare to be widely available to all Americans.
“Mrs. Ila,” they purred, “Do you need a ride to the polls? We would be more than happy…”
They asked despite the fact I was sitting right by her side. Slightly annoyed, I still appreciated that those wide-eyed college kids made her day. And her theirs.
Four years later Mom would have delighted in Bernie’s front-runner status, no matter how short-lived it is turning out to be. Some of the most important conversations we ever had in her later life were political ones.
We did not always agree by any means. But those talks allowed me to get to know and respect her in a new and different way.
Ah, really I think the weather has much more to do with these current grief pangs than Mr. Sanders.
As Central Florida eases on into early Spring we have a coveted front row seat as life unfolds & replenishes. Mom’s favorite thing to do in the short time she lived here was to begin her day on the back porch with a cup of coffee & a toasted slice of raisin bread with schmear of peanut butter. She would become absorbed in the sight and sound of waves hitting the sea wall, taking in all the crazy critter life crossing her path. We giggled & clapped like children as we just took it all in.
Our daily habit.
Never mundane because that view ever changes.
Needless to say, it is still my daily habit.
And I swear I now see her reflection in soft waves
& feel her spirit as wind rustles trees.
Laura, what a special reflection of a special Lady.
Awww, thank ya Mrs. Sandy. Much appreciated. I learned a lot about your special friendship as we would go thru work photos & she would tell stories.
Laura that was wonderful you knew your Mom I enjoyed her stories also and I missed still. Thank you. Love Frances🌹
Thank you, Mrs. Frances. Seems like yesterday we were all visiting. Life changes so quick. Glad you & your family are well. Stay safe.