It was one year ago today, around 1pm, when my family said goodbye to Mama. Her passing changed us all. We were fortunate to have witnessed the event, and although the saddest day of my life thus far…it was also a beautiful gift…to be with her as she transitioned was truly amazing, because I knew for the first time, in that very moment, there is much more to life than this earthly existence.
As I reflect on the year, I have much for which to be thankful. My brother and his wife have a stronger, healthier marriage and are now going to church together. My sweet nephews were baptized and now attend church with their parents…as a family.
I am much closer to my Daddy…not only because he is battling cancer, but because our connection is undeniable now. I am also much closer to my brother…a man I barely knew. He is a wonderful human being and I can honestly now call him my friend.
I am thankful for this job and for you, our wonderful listeners. It is a good thing I had to come to work…the show must go on as they say, but I thank you for letting me grieve on and off the air with you.
I am also grateful for my extended family and dear friends all across the world…who held me up, literally at times, and held me up in prayer. Your love and support blessed me time and time again.
What we lost on this day a year ago, we gained in spirit…a new attitude, a new closeness, a renewed faith in God…a new chance at loving all of those around us, completely and deliberately.
I miss my Mama and her smile, her laugh..all the millions of ways she loved us. And the only way I can honor her now really, is to continue to live authentically. To continue to try and be happy. There is no honor in crawling into a hole and living in the past…she would not want that for me. She would want me to keep smiling…
I may be crying today, but I’m smiling through the tears Mama. Rest in peace dearest. We love you honey. And we thank you for all the memories.