I've been waiting 4 weeks to show this...

Two years ago today, my Mom died.
But I found something 4 weeks ago, that I want to show you now.

Right after she died, I put most of her things aside. I would go through them little by little. I think I was trying to savor the experience and make it last.

Four weeks ago I finally was going through the last box, and at the very bottom of this I found a manila folder. Inside were about 10 sheets of family photos that she had photocopied. When I got to the last one there was this poem. My mom was not into poetry, at all. She believed if you had something to say, just say it, don't put it in a poem.

But then I found this. She so obviously put this with her photos. It was typed out on a regular size piece of paper. Or maybe it was photocopied....I can't tell for sure.

I wonder if she put it there purposely for us to find after she was gone. What do you think?
I especially like the line, "...I am loving you just as I always have..."
I'm sure of it.

Click here to see an excerpt from a video showing all her children.

10 comments:

grandmapeg said...

What an absolutely beautiful poem and so meaningful. That was so thoughtful of your mom to leave that with the photos to let your family know that she is still loving you as she always did. I believe that message with all of my heart. I have been thinking of my own mother this day knowing that this day is special for you. I love this poem! Thanks for sharing it!

The Gage Cage said...

How funny that your mom said if you have something to say just say it...don't put it in a poem. Cracks me up. I completely enjoy straight forward people. I am a fan of meaningful poetry...it's in my Z blood...but I am NOT a fan of long winded drawn out stories. It's like reading books...when authors are describing sunsets and other things....I do NOT have the patients for it! I find myself feeling more annoyed that entertained. I don't know why I'm saying this but I think I would have found it very easy to relate to your mom.

Susan Rozier said...

Jill, This is not just a loving tribute to your mom, but is a loving tribute from your mom to her family. I loved the poem. We've been thinking about her today. We watched the 50th Anniversary DVD that I think Dennis's daughter made for your folks. It is so well done and shows the love in your family so beautifully. I know you all miss her. I have so much admiration for her and the legacy she left. Love, Susan

Karen Mortensen said...

Very nice Jill. Your mom was great and I am sure she is still watching out for all of you. How nice to be able to find something like this.

Anonymous said...

Mom always was the practical type! I'm sure she liked this poem because it was particularly meaningful and spoke her sentiments, but it is also a little ironic. In that it talks of how you shouldn't cry when you think of her, and yet reading it without tears is almost impossible.
Heidi

Grandma Honey said...

I know exactly what you mean Heidi.

Rebecca said...

Ohhh this is wonderful that you have this.

Kathy's Red Door Welcome said...

What a treasure to find that poem amidst your mother's photos. What a gift! I loved the video too! You have so many wonderful photos of the life of your family. It makes me want to be more vigilent to take more photos! Thanks so much for sharing. It seems that the torch has been passed from your mother to you to keep the family memories alive!

Lisa said...

WOW! Isn't it amazing how that whole process played out & at the very, very end-the poem? Your mom knew she would be closer to you guys then you all knew. It makes me think that her, Robin & your brother are all engaged in work beyond the veil that we cannot comprehend.

I love this post because it reminds me that your mom & dad lived an incredible life with no regrets. You have such a beautiful family culture. Very inspiring as I can see my parents will soon be gone.

Eileen said...

A beautiful message from Heaven. You're very lucky.
I lost my Mom three years ago and I love when she sends me little signs like that too.

Jack's proud moment

Jack could hardly believe his good fortune  when they put the 4 year olds in charge of the fire!