We need only remember her. We need only call her by the heart-name every human being has set into their very souls before they ever came to earth, that one word each of us knew before we could even feed ourselves, before we could even walk. The very first word inscribed into the hearts of all of humanity across the entire planet:
Mama
Mami
Madre
Mamo
Mommie
Makuahine
Maji
Majka
Moer
MànaAnya
Móthair
Maman
Máti
Mère
Okaasan
Mutter
Mor
Mari
Motina
Matka
Mother
Text: Clarissa Pinkola Estés
Painting The Soul of the Rose by John William Waterhouse
Thank you for a very touching post on motherhood. I reflect on my mother who passed away 17 years ago. She imparted much grace, patience, balance and common sense into our family. These qualities were a wonderful complement to my father's fiery enthusiasm and passion which sometimes went to extremes! I remember her often with great love and respect and give homage to her light and wisdom. She passed away due to complications from an aggressive brain tumour. Also, The Soul of the Rose painting is lovely!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Joseph, for sharing this special memory of your own mother and her qualities. A mother can provide so much in the way of a stable and positive basis for a family, and it is wonderful that your own mother has given these memories to you. I am really touched ♥
ReplyDeleteEmma as the hours, days, months, and years pass my heart continues to heal while living without my Mummy. As a young child I adored her. She was a movie star to me yet with sharp edges at times. While I was a young adult she was my friend while learning of life. While I was middle-aged and so busy with a professional career she was my "pep" club. Supporting me in every way she knew how. And as I became an older woman she became my companion in later life. I took care of her and she took care of me. We had a quiet life together yet a very endearing meaningful life. We had the chance to do a slow dance of the heart. As I lived full-time as her care provider I knew the day would come to say good-bye. When that day arrived she curled up in her bed with her glasses on, a book on her chest and peaceful look in her eye. She smiled at me. It was like so many afternoon naps that I had seen but this given day March 4, 2011 she put her wings on. Just like an eagle she was quiet and flew away without a sound. Yet left a trace inside my heart.
ReplyDeleteThank you too, dearest Deborah, for sharing these personal memories of your mother and your special bond with her, leaving a trace inside your heart. ♥♥♥
Delete