My Other Mother

Because my mother suffered from Alzheimer's Disease for many years, she could not really function as my mother. That being the case, I was the "mother" and she was the "child" for the last years before she passed away.

Fortunately a very loving maternal type from my previous church "adopted me". Since retiring, I have made a real effort to keep in touch, going to visit every month or two. Not only did she adopt me, but she 'adopted' my oldest daughter and her two children, so they also got a grandmother/great-grandmother in the bargain! When I say "adopted", I mean, of course, that she gathered us up into the arms of her love.

I visited my other mother today. She was so so happy to see me. Recently, she had knitted sweaters for my two young grandchildren and mailed them. My daughter was so pleased and surprised and happy to receive them that she had sent pictures and a lovely letter. I joked with my adopted mother that if I want to see pictures of my grandchildren I have to come visit her!

"Mother" has some increasing mobility issues, and has fallen a few times. Once she got a bad concussion, and has been suffering from dizzy spells. I actually found her much better today than in previous visits. She was up and about, using a walker. The doctors suspect a case of vertigo.

"Mother" never says an unkind word about anyone. She loves everyone. She sees only the good in people. Back in the day when she used to be able to go to church, she would "hold court". That's the way her husband described it. It was a court of love and she was at its center.

If you happened to walk by 'mother' holding court, and feel the warmth of her love bestowed upon you, you were blessed indeed.

I was adopted by "my other mother" very late in life. So glad I didn't miss it!