Yesterday, I read through all the generous comments you all shared when I asked the question, “What was it about Mom that caused you to care and pray for her?” The comments flooded my Facebook and blog of stories I hadn’t heard of before. It reminded me what we all have to lose and why we need to be persistent in our prayers. Three characteristics stand out as I read your responses.
Funny Faces
Every picture posted had Mom smiling or making a funny face. Thanks Eldine and Ginnie. Because laughter increases endorphins in the brain, being around Mom gave people a sort of high. It almost became addicting to be around her. The famous Proverb says, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” Dad is a general surgeon. If Dad knew how to take out an appendix, then Mom knew how to heal hearts with laughter. If Mom doesn’t make it, the world is going to be that much less joyful.
Generous Giving
Mom’s generosity is exceeding and abundant. Uncle Sam Catalon commented about one time when Mom “cooked for an entire army” when the guests were only him and his wife. We all have witnessed the multiple times Mom had enough food to feed the crowd twice over.
Oh, and there were multiple designer handbag stories. I knew she loved buying them (I’ve seen her closet). I didn’t know she gave them out. Judy Johnson, I love the story of Mom opening the back her van to reveal many handbags for you to choose from. Mom has a way of inviting people into her own joy.
Caring Connections
The ability of Mom to connect with others is perhaps what I am most envious about. Kim Knowlton shared how she had connected with Mom one time and had been friends since. Where did they connect? In a crowded aisle of an Asian market. I ask myself, “Who makes friends in a crowded aisle of an Asian market?” My mom apparently.
Part of making a connection means being there for people during times that matter most. For Helen Woldemichael it was her graduation. And for others like Lanell Jacobs it was traveling from Florida to Tennessee to encourage her during her own fight with cancer 18 years ago. For Auntie Loida Fortin, it was Mom walking down the aisle as a sponsor in her daughter’s wedding though Mom suffered from cancer and side effects of chemotherapy.
Reflections
As I read your stories they made me laugh. They made me cry. It reminded me of a quote by St Irenaeus, “The glory of God is man fully alive.” For Mom, every moment had to be lived to the fullest. This posture toward life made her a blessing to others and a praise to the Heavenly Father.
Update
Yesterday we all prayed for peace and Mom has been less agitated since. She’s been more awake and can obey simple commands. In fact, we FacedTimed with Mom and she got to see her children and grandchildren. Her eye were alert and awake. I played Meditation by Massenet for her. Deborah performed the hymn It Is Well intertwined with Moonlight Sonata. David played his guitar while his kids sang. We were so happy to communicate with Mom once again.
The biggest struggle Mom has right now are her lungs. Many will struggle with one infection. She has three infections of the lung. Pray for healing for her lungs so doctors can back of ventilator support. For medical people, her PEEP is at 12 and they’re having difficulty backing down.
I’m praying for Mom to be healed. She’s been a blessing to so many of you to be let go now. The prayer of the Psalmist has also been the prayer of Mom.
What will you gain if I die, if I sink into the grave? Can my dust praise you? Can it tell of your faithfulness? – Psalm 30:9
Mom has more to tell of the Almighty’s faithfulness. It’s not over yet.
1 Comment
Bro, your family has been a big support to you over the years. I think you will all be amazed at all of the medical miracles that God performed for all of you and us.