I want to share this here, as I did on Facebook this morning, as you have all been so kind and generous with your good thoughts and prayers for my mother this week. Forgive me if I don't have a chance to respond to your comments today. I will surely return to read and treasure them when I can. R xo
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My amazing mother passed this morning, near 8AM Eastern time, with my sister and two brothers by her side. After the hopeful post yesterday, more info was revealed, and this is not unexpected. It was her time.
In the Irish tradition that I was raised with, I share this, not to mourn a loss, but to celebrate her life. And to give you a glimpse at who this remarkable woman is, I share an excerpt of a letter my mother wrote to us, her children, which I only received yesterday.
(Note: the "Mary" she refers to dancing with is my sister, Mary, my mother's namesake, who passed away when she was young.)
My Mother's words:
"God has granted me so much during my lifetime - good health, creative spirit, much happiness, delightful events, which you were a part of many times over.
There will come a time to leave this behind, and I know i will feel deep regret at not being able to share more, both happy and sad times, but I will have to move on to the next phase, perhaps singing with my father, dancing with Mary, watching over all of you, banging on God's door when you are in need.
Always remember all the funny, dumb, good things. Never dwell on mistakes or sorrows. We must grieve sometimes, but then let a strong, cool wind blow this away and go ahead with the next doohickey. Look for beauty, music and for God's sake, a sense of humor. Heart and soul depend on it. My love follows you always.
None of us can predict our future, of course, but I wanted to express my wishes and love for all of you. Just think, I won't have to care if I'm fat, have high cholesterol, have wrinkles, or care what to wear. I can just smile down on you, laugh with you, and pray for your futures and that of my grandchildren."
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This was the gift of a woman I was raised by. I am so very blessed. I celebrate you, Mom, and treasure all of the lessons and wisdom you have given me. You have been with me every day of my life, no matter how far I've wandered. That will never change.
Thank you all again for your loving prayers, my friends. I know that they helped her get to where she needs to be now.
xo R