have changed over the past year. As I survey my present circumstance, I know that this is one of those times in a persons life that is just about as good as it gets.
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Just a year ago, # 1 was on the field, walking across the stage, completing one journey and starting another. Although we have seen little of each other over the past year, each time we do spend time together is a special moment. It is amazing to see the changes that have occurred in her personality during this short time. I suppose that it is the independence, the distance, the atmosphere at ACU; it matters not, it just is.
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Last night was one of those moments in a parents life that is full of joy, pride, sadness, gladness, fear, uncertainty, happiness and confusion. Why so many feelings? All day long I was in a funk. Why? What part about this was not good? # 2 graduated first in her class, achieved some incredible goals, stood in front of 4,000 people and spoke words full of insight, had her family there to support her and what am I? I suppose that melancholy would be a good word to use, although it probably denotes more sadness than I feel. I’m just spinning, thinking, wondering where did the time go? As she said in her speech last night, have I lived my life in the shadows, never seeking the light?
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I mentioned that this is one of those times in a persons life that is about as good as it gets. One of the things that is missing is the joy that Gerry brought to all of those around. I couldn’t help but notice last night that she was supposed to be there to celebrate a job well done just as much as I was. She “adopted” Kate as her own, never differentiating between grandchildren with blood ties and those without. The joy that she brought to the girls with her various crafts, all the while teaching them life skills that they use every day. Spending a week at Meemaw’s house for vacation bible school. A life cut short that continues on in all of her relationships.
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Yes, life is about as good as it gets right now. About. I miss her. Late.
What a sweet commentary, David. Yes, Gerry did indeed treat us all as though we were her own. How special was that? And yes it is very sad that she was there in person to hear #2’s wonderful speech. I do believe though that she heard the speech sitting right along side of Mother looking down, blowing that gentle breeze upon us. Her presence lives among us. No doubt.
More tears!