Our dear friends,
A week ago we celebrated Mother's Day with my sweet mom. There were cards and flowers and laughter. It was the most bittersweet of days as the reality of my mom's illness has become increasingly uncomfortable for her. We savored that day, with all her kids and grandkids gathered together, knowing that this would be her final Mother's Day with us.
Today she made the decision to call Mercy Hospice, and tomorrow the nurse will come to the house to begin palliative care. She is greatly relieved to have reached the point where she will have relief from her significant discomforts, and will only receive treatment to relieve her pain and nausea. She intends to go to church tomorrow, see her friends there, and receive the Sacrament.
As much as I want to hold on to her as long as possible, I lean back on the lessons she has taught me throughout my life: In every action on this earth, we consider not just ourselves but those around us, particularly those that are less fortunate. This life is temporary. The promise of heaven is real, and we live our lives in thanksgiving for this gift.
Equipped with this wisdom, I set aside my own selfish needs and breathe a sigh of relief that she will soon receive comfort, and eventually eternal comfort.
None of us knows what the remaining time will be, but we are confident in letting her go knowing she remains in the arms of Christ.
With deep gratitude for your love and support,
Amy (Grosch) Cavalleri
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”
Psalm 46: 1-2
Thank you for this sharing. Barbara, what a gift you have been to the world and what gifts your children. You are all in my thoughts and prayers and there are many, many holding all of you in light and love.
ReplyDeleteOur prayers are with you and your family. We have always so enjoyed
ReplyDeleteour time with you Barbara. Your laughter and your fun ways will
always be with us. Love, John and Donna
I love this and you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your words. They are a gift. So is your mom.
That's beautifully written and so true, Amy. (Our computer is confused, I'm Janet, not Ted)
ReplyDelete