My mom’s life was a story of courage.
From the very beginning, she faced challenges most people can’t imagine. Mom endured surgeries throughout her childhood, long stretches trapped in a body cast, and doctors telling her again and again that she wouldn’t make it.
But she did.
She was told holding down a job would be too tough for her. Yet mom worked at the Arkansas state capitol.
She was warned that getting married would be very difficult for her. Yet mom met and married the love of her life and was by his side every day for more than 60 years.
They told her she could not raise children. She raised a son.
They said she should not travel. Yet she traveled the world.
They said mom wouldn’t be around long enough to see me grow and become a man.
But she did.
Even as mom’s body grew weaker, forced to be on oxygen for 4 decades, breathing equipment, and eventually a trach that stole her voice, yet mom didn’t let that stop her. There were times she couldn’t eat. Times she couldn’t speak. But mom always found a way.
She pushed through every hardship with faith in God, love for her family, and a spirit that never slowed down. She didn’t just survive, she overcame.
Speaking for myself. When life puts something heavy in front of me, I think of mom. I sense her strength, even in the silence. And it gives me the strength and inspiration to keep going.
Mom was with us 81 years and I can honestly say she truly LIVED.
Words cannot convey how she is missed. I love you mom.