A Mother’s Legacy of Love

It is a quiet morning here. The Christmas tree is brightly lit with white twinkly lights. The cats are nestled around it and the children are still in bed. Sipping my coffee, in the early morning stillness, my mind is melancholy. The week between Christmas and New Years has become a relaxing one for me. One when I feel tremendously present, blessed and grateful for all of those whom have touched my life.

This year, my Mom isn’t here and the tears began falling. Silent reminders of a life well-lived and with gratitude for being her daughter. I miss my Mom for many reasons, but most of all for her unconditional love and kindness. While none of us are perfect, her love and her heartlight were always shining. She is my role model when it comes to loving people for who they are with unconditional love and understanding.

I found the poem below and it brought me much peace so I thought I’d share it with you. Hold your loved ones close and find the goodness always.

Shine On!

xo

She Is Gone

You can shed tears that she is gone
or you can smile because she has lived. 

You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back
or you can open your eyes and see all she’s left. 

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her
or you can be full of the love you shared. 

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. 

You can remember her and only that she’s gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. 

You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back
or you can do what she’d want:
smile, open your eyes, love and go on. 

David Harkins, © 1981