A day

[vaneramos]

Here is what I want to say tomorrow.

Last autumn Mom told me that she felt privileged to have discovered, even so late, the value of a day, because many people go through life without ever having to think about it. We can't change the past, nor can we be sure about the future. The only thing we can hold onto is today.

It might seem like she was always good at enjoying the present, but actually I believe this was a difficult lesson. She loved us all so much that she was always planning things. I used to think that whenever we got together she spent most of the time figuring out our next visit. Mom didn't like goodbyes, and the last year was hard for her as chances increased that each farewell would be the last. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she learned to treasure every moment with people she loved, also the quiet beauty of Lake Fletcher and Poplar Bluff.

To always live in the present is impossible. We must make plans after all. And of course happy memories are part of our happiness now. But happy memories, for me anyway, are the times when I was fully engaged in what I was doing. To spend time every day absorbed in the good things around us, makes the journey a rich one indeed. To share this awareness with people we care about is possibly the fullest realization of love. It comforts me to know that during her illness, Mom took great pleasure in nature and her loved ones.

We can't help missing her or feeling sad sometimes, but Mom wouldn't want us to dwell too long on loss or regret. Let's take the opportunity, as much as we are able, to honour her wisdom by making the most of our time.

Another photo is posted in texture.

Comments

[missprune.livejournal.com]

Wonderful, Van. In my own small way through my current illness, I am learning some of the same perspective... to cherish the good moments and enjoy what I can, and to share the pleasure with my loved ones.

[vaneramos.livejournal.com]

I hope it brings you a measure of wellbeing. It has helped me, as much as anything has. I appreciate how it also brought me and Mom to a shared understanding after some years of being on different wavelengths.

[susandennis]

That is a wonderful sentiment and beautifully expressed. Thank you.

[vaneramos.livejournal.com]

You're very welcome. I've felt some affirmation, in the past, from your own perspective on these things.

[susandennis]

What a lovely thing to hear. I'll be thinking of you and your family especially carefully tomorrow.

Carpe Diem

[blt4success66.livejournal.com]

As I've progressed a little older, I find it increasingly harder to plan for the future because I'm struggling enough to get through today. We can make plans but inevitably your mom had it right, we only have today.

So we seize the day. Take what it offers but amazingly we forget that we're blessed (or cursed) with the same 24 hours as everyone else.

HUGS!

[bixie.livejournal.com]

lovely. :>

I love your photography

[(Anonymous)]

Hey Van, it's Kenny from TExas! I love your photography. IT was so good to get to know you better over that extra day!