My mother, almost 90, has dementia and is in a skilled care facility. My father passed away last year. Life as Mom knew it is gone, and she is hurting.
I live several hours away. I haven’t seen her since Christmas: lockdowns intervened. For the past few months, we have “visited” via FaceTime. Not being able to see her in person and giving her hugs breaks my heart. Nevertheless, I am thankful that I can keep in touch with her. Our virtual visits bring us both joy.
Mom has given me so many gifts and happy, loving memories. So I found an opportunity to thank her, albeit remotely. Each time I talk with her, I remind her of those times, what we have shared. Some things she remembers; others, not so much, so I tell her, “That’s OK, Mom; I’m remembering them for you.” We always end with “I love you.”
Knowing that every time I speak with her may be the last, I want the words she hears to be loving ones. I thank her for all she has given me. She’ll say something like, “That’s so wonderful to hear. I’m glad I made you happy.”
I am grateful that I had another opportunity to speak with her today. Today, I thanked her for teaching me kindness, and she said, “I didn’t teach you; you already knew.”
She thanked me for being her daughter.
No, Mom; thank you for being my mother.
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