04/08/2024
They say mothers are the glue.
That holds everything together.
She grips her child’s hand tightly when crossing the road. Snuggles and books at bedtime. Researches where they are on the growth charts. Checks under the bed for monsters. Kisses their worries away. The worries she takes on as her own.
She checks folders and backpacks. Understanding that every reach for her hand may be the last. Freshly washed uniforms are ready for the big games. Play dates and themed birthday parties are arranged. She drives to and from each activity. Gladly giving her time over to them as she cheers from the sidelines.
She feels the tug away from her. Those middle school years can break her heart. Less hugs. More eye rolls and intended distance from her. But she waits for a sign that she is still needed as she washes the baseball pants and tucks permission slips into their school folders.
She anxiously waits for them to come home. Pacing in the hallway. Every scary scenario comes to mind imagining them on the roads at night. She wishes she was back to checking under the bed for monsters. Because that fear was make believe….Because they were always safely tucked in their bed. Sleep doesn’t come until the sound of the front door opening. They are home.
In the adult years the distance may grow but she is still Home. Home meaning base. A place they are always welcomed with open arms. Families grow. And with that schedules grow. It occurs to her that it is harder every year to get everyone home. Where they all can just be together. It becomes her greatest wish. And if you want to know how anyone is doing…one call to Mom can give you the whole story of everyone’s lives.
Then one day she is gone. And you get it. Base isn’t there anymore. Because walls and doors don’t make a home. She was Home. She was the glue. Even with adult children…she held everything together. And then…
She is gone. Like pick up sticks being scattered from what once was a sturdy wall. The treasure trove of your childhood stories go with her. The planned family gatherings…the traditions…the unconditional love..
So if you still have her. Please call her. Call your mom.
Because one day…the Mom in your phone screen won’t light up to tell you she is calling to check on you. Call her today. And tell her you love her.
Before it’s too late.
She is waiting.
