#409 Thanks, Mom,

for all of the things you taught me - self-reliance, integrity, honor, truthfulness, manners, respect of my elders, respect for others who are different than me, the value of reading, how to make do, selective perception, obedience and rebellion, live my own life, etc.

As mentioned in at least one previous post, mom was not an easy person to love, but love her I did. It seemed better to visit infrequently, rather than deal with her staunch protection of her world. The sad part is understanding that she believed she had to protect it. She carried a lot of vengeful baggage aimed at those she believed had wronged her during her life. Most of those "wrongs" occurred from the day she was born until the "perpetrators" passed away. Even with their passing she could not let it go.

From my perspective, the only people she ever loved left her alone to fend for herself. Her father was her guiding light and pillar of strength. His untimely passing did not help. However, in a way, it did. She recognized that she was the only one left to protect herself. So she set about doing just that. Although she may have been small in stature, she made up for it in her chutzpah and psychological armor. She could be real terror when she felt it necessary.

There is no doubt she believed, as do I, that she did her best for my brother and me. I will always treasure the times that we could talk about her life. I am glad I was able to capture many of the stories of her life. (You can read some of them under the label, Jane.)

So, Mom, now that you have transitioned on to the next series of missions, I am sure they will be just what you need. After all, you will still be in charge of your own destiny. Perhaps our paths will cross again in a future life.

Love,

Jack

#409