We Didn't Go

Today I recounted part of Mom's story to a friend.  We were discussing the fact that Liz, Dalton and I were not in Rochester when she had her Whipple Procedure. The friend asked if I didn't go because I knew it was going to be okay.  My answer was no. The reasons I didn't go were many. Mom didn't need me there for her. Dad would have just worried about us if we would have been there rather than taking care of himself. I knew where she was going had she not made it through the surgery. I had been able to tell her everything I wanted her to know up to that point.  She knew how much we loved her and cared for her. We believe that life does not end at death. (She came through surgery beautifully, by the way.) From that moment, I realized how important it is to be sure you tell those you love how much you love them and do so often, whether in word or deed. I'm so glad I was able to live my life with my mom to the fullest and share with her all that she was to me and for me. Liz has said many times that Mom feels more alive to her now than she did when she was with us. I agree with that. I'm tired of her not being here with us, but I know where she is and I know the deep joy she feels.