Mama's tribute

 

01/25/2023

My Tribute to Mom

Rest in Peace

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."

• Winnie the Pooh

I think we can all attest to that quote. I know I can, One Thousand times over. I like to think of Mom's life as a magnificent tapestry filled with brilliant colors. Each strand attributes her journey. Her marriage of Fifty-two and half years to Daddy is a masterpiece. Every moment, trial, and triumph spun together, a legacy of its own.

Mom had a gentle and kind way about her. Even if you just met, you had a friend in Marilyn. Her Faith was unshakeable, and she loved without condition. She could be tenacious, bull-headed, and determined. Not all in a negative stance. Mom found immense joy in the outdoors. Her knowledge of birds and photography has passed through generations, as has her fondness for coloring and artistry.

Shortly before mom's hospitalization, she called to say she was ready for more girlfriend time, as was I. Growing up, we had our differences, as all child-parent relationships do. Looking back now, I see wisdom in the place of unreasoning. Guilt washed away by Grace. Forgiveness where we had faltered. Love witnessed in T-I-M-E.

She understood me. Sometimes more than I understood myself. We crossed over from just Mom and Daughter to best friends and kindred spirits. Laughter became our song. Oh. How I will miss that. She has impacted our lives, leaving beautiful imprints on our hearts. And we are all the better for having Marilyn Jean Blacksmith as a part of our lives.