MOM, I AM LISTENING

by Joyce

MOM, I AM LISTENING

You taught us to respect ourselves and others and to be accountable for our actions... like when the vacuum cleaner somehow went through the window...
I listened.


You taught us right from wrong and to always take heed of the voice inside us and for the most part...
I listened.


You taught us not to judge others, and not to call attention to one's handicap...
I listened.


You taught us that all of us are equal and that no one is better or less than another...
I listened.


You taught us to love and be proud of ourselves. It took me a while, but...
I listened.


When you drove over 5 hours so your dog could breed with mine, and when they were not interested, you told me to get busy and have my baby now so it wouldn't be a wasted trip...
I listened and delivered Kim 2 weeks early!


You were always there for me when I needed to talk or just a hug. You were the one who taught me to turn my worries and problems over to God...
and I listened.


You taught me so many things and I have a lifetime of memories that I learned...
just from listening.


After Thanksgiving dinner, as I was getting ready to leave, you placed your frail hands around my face and with all the love you have, you told me to stop worrying about you. I told you that I would never stop worrying, that I love you, but that if you need to go, it's okay and that I will be okay...
You listened.


At Christmas, I watched you as you labored with every breath that you took. Your body not wanting to move, I realized that you were ready to go, and I asked Jesus to bring you home while you were sleeping in your own bed...
He listened.


Mom, I love you and will miss you, but I know that you are in heaven with Grandma and Grandpa and free from your pain, with the loving arms of Jesus wrapped tightly around you. But if you ever want to talk...
I will be listening.