On the Wings of A Dove

Some friends of mine recently lost their mother. It happened rather quickly and gave them little time to prepare for something no one ever wants to experience, and never fully comprehends until they go through it themselves. Having lost my mom a number of years ago and having supported other good friends through their loss, it seems losing our mothers is a life event that is far more devastating and impactful than we could ever anticipate.
Most of us grow up idolizing our moms, then perhaps rebelling against, or resenting them, only to eventually come full circle to admire, respect and appreciate them. As adults we eventually realize all that they sacrificed for us, and all that they instilled in us. If we are lucky, we learn that mothers epitomize the beauty of the human spirit. We come to value motherhood as a shining example of the amazing love, healing, generosity, and selflessness we are capable of.  As children we tend to take our mothers for granted, and as adults we often pay too little attention to them. We under value the unconditional love they so freely offer until it is there no more and we must reluctantly begin the journey of fully understanding what a magnificent gift it was, and what a devastating hole it's absence leaves in our hearts.
My friends were fortunate to have a wonderful relationship with their mom, one to be admired. They went on many holidays together, and really valued the time they spent with one another. Even better, they had so much fun with one another. Because of this, I know that many of their memories will ring with the sound of laughter and the beautiful image of their mother's smile. Still, my heart goes out to them as they go through the painful ups and downs of the grieving process, a process that is unique for each of us, one that evolves and softens with time, but never fully goes away.
My dear friends, I cannot take away your pain, and quite honestly would not want to, for it is a testament to your mother's life, and part of what will help you heal. Little by little though, as you honor the pain and let it go, her legacy will begin to fill in the shattered spaces of your heart with the unconditional love and gifts she left behind, many of which, you have yet to discover.
To three ladies I am honored to call friends, continue to support and love one another as your mother did, and to all of you who are also on this journey, I wish you much love and light along the way.

Mom

I will always love you,

for you are 

the softness in my soul,

the joy,

the strength,

and the comfort...
I will always feel you with me,

for you are
 the angelic echo in my heart,

reminding me I'm loved,
 brought ever so gently 
on the wings of a dove...

pbowman

In loving memory of Frances Elliott