The Magic of Memory: Holding Close Those We've Loved and Lost

Dearest friends, 

As we continue through the holiday season I wanted to share an old writing of mine that I posted after the loss of my mother:

We often find ourselves getting lost in the hustle and bustle of the season while missing out on all the little sparks of magic and love the seasons of togetherness bring.  

SO I wanted to remind us ALL to take a step back, listen intently with your ears, look closely with your eyes, smell the smells, taste the tastes, and feel the feels, ALL of them. Enjoy your people, make memories, be kind, gracious, and welcoming to others, AND as requested by my mom, our beloved Dodo, speak frequently of and remember those who've gone before us....

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Written on June 2, 2019

I know there’s been a thousand songs and poems about an empty chair, but....today I had an epiphany about the significance of that chair.....

Although my mother’s earthly journey ended this March, her chair had been empty for quite some time.....she never complained, she never asked why, she just pressed on to be the best she could be....struggling so many days, stoic and brave for those she loved.....yet, her chair was empty.

During this time my mom was unable to fully enjoy and embrace things we take for granted...some of the many things she loved to do most.

Today as we gathered with family to celebrate a milestone birthday for our precious cousin...my mom’s niece who she loved dearly........I couldn’t help but think of her.

My mom LOVED a celebration, and truly appreciated every joy of togetherness with family and those she loved.

Sadly, these past two years her body didn’t allow her to do what was so natural to her heart...so today, surrounded by my loved ones, surrounded by laughter, I sat back and absorbed it all like a sponge....

There was a nice breeze, the temperature was just right, the grass was green and the vineyard rows were precise.... "What a Wonderful World” was being sung by a talented musician who was in key, and there were children of all ages enjoying the beautiful day....people were dancing and enjoying good food and drink, my son and his cousin were playing catch, my husband by my side....a little girl in a pink dress with a blond ponytail and ribbon....maybe 2 or 3 was running and laughing....she reminded me of pictures I had seen of myself at that age....my dad was smiling and enjoying conversations with my aunts and uncle....and just like that it hit me how fast this life flies by.....and I couldn’t help but cry.....I cried for the empty chair at graduation, art in the park on a blanket, shopping sprees, spa days, BBQs, baseball games, band concerts, Christmas programs, CC pool, dancing at VFW....and the list goes on...

My heart broke for all of the things she missed out on, the things she would have loved to do....the things she WANTED to do....and then that peace came over me....that peace and contentment she had while sitting in her own chair (well, couch or bed ;) patting the backs of her grown children or grandbabies, loving my dad, her sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends while life just kept flying by......pure love, that’s all.....that’s what came over me.......that’s what soothed her while her chair was empty....that’s why our hearts will always be full!

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SO in a nut shell... ALWAYS remember that memories are a magical space in our hearts and minds where loved ones visit and laughter and joy reside! SO make LOTS of them with your village, embrace your people, enjoy your time,  and never forget that you can love those you miss from afar. Love NEVER dies, it waits. ❤️