365 days today. They say time heals all wounds, but mine are still feeling pretty fresh.
Here is the reading I wrote for my Mom's funeral one year ago.
To my Mom, the most courageous woman I know ... to my family and friends I say these four words ........ "Life happens. Love helps."
So much in our lives is beyond our control, leaving many people (including myself) searching for answers. Everyone has their own belief system - some believe in God, some believe in destiny or karma... and well, some - just aren't quite sure.
When I am searching for answers to the the "why" questions in life ... what I know for sure ... is that LOVE helps.
My Mom courageously fought the battle of her life against inflammatory breast cancer. A cancer undectible by mammogram and even ultrasound. It spread through her entire body, invaded her liver, and interfered with her daily existence for nearly 4 years.This is where I again say "Life happens. Love helps"
There was nothing I could do to change her story - I couldn't stop the cancer from spreading - I couldn't relieve her of pain - I couldn't make her hair grow back... {Although, given the chance, I'd do it all in a heartbeat}
But I can love her. And I do ... love her.
I will miss her in a way I can't even begin to explain, but her legacy will live on through me, her family, friends and beautiful grandchildren.Rest in peace, free from pain, Mom. I love you.
These are very beautiful words, and a wonderful legacy for your mom.
Posted by: Queen Mary | March 07, 2011 at 11:38 AM
So touching are the words you have shared. It doesn't seem like it was a year ago, that's for sure. God Bless and take care.
Yvonne
Posted by: Yvonne | March 07, 2011 at 11:54 AM
You have touched my heart my dear. God bless you this day and may the wonderful memories you shared with you mom always be dear to your heart. May God bless you.
Posted by: Denise Willerton | March 07, 2011 at 12:24 PM
How touching. I know how you feel. I just lost my mom a month ago also to breast cancer. She went in to the hospital cause of small cold and she passed 2 days later. There was nothing they could do, the cancer had spread. I will remember your words... "Life happens. Love helps." Thanks, again for sharing, Ondy V
Posted by: Ondy Valladares | March 07, 2011 at 01:20 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with you today, Kris.....
Posted by: kathy | March 07, 2011 at 03:03 PM
There are no words than can describe the loss of your own mom. The pain of loss never goes away, we just managa it. Some days are good and some arent. But like you said love helps. I miss my mom too, its been ten years now, unbelievable, I miss her soooo much.
Posted by: Donna James | March 07, 2011 at 03:41 PM
Your words are beautiful and your mother is honored. I too miss my mom and she has been gone for 20 years now.
Special thoughts and love also to Ondy V. (the fourth post)
Love and may God bless you.
Posted by: Mary A. | March 07, 2011 at 09:22 PM
Thinking of you Kris on this 365th day. I know how hard it is. Take care of yourself!
Posted by: Pam Giudici | March 07, 2011 at 09:30 PM
Kris, my thoughts are with you these next few days...
Posted by: Ann Schach | March 07, 2011 at 11:51 PM
Prayers and hugs to you and your family!
Posted by: Anita A | March 08, 2011 at 12:06 AM
We still talk and think about your mom all the time . . . her wit, sincerity and kindness. This is such a beautiful tribute. I can't believe it's been a year. She's still just as strong in our hearts. Hugs, Auntie
Posted by: mary fish | March 08, 2011 at 10:31 AM
Beautiful! You and your family are in my thoughts, Kris. Hugs, Carla
Posted by: Carla Bazhenow | March 08, 2011 at 01:15 PM
Kris, these are lovely thoughts and words. Your mom must have been a very special person. My husband passed away right after Christmas from a melanoma of the liver. His battle was only 5 days but we had so little time to be with him and the loss is great. I love your 'Life happens...love helps' sentiment. That DOES help.
Posted by: Mary Colemon | March 13, 2011 at 10:37 AM
A beautiful tribute to your mother Kris. I am a radiation therapist and I work with cancer patients. I understand what you've been through and I am sorry for your loss. You are right...love helps :)
Posted by: Elizabeth | March 22, 2011 at 10:07 PM
Kris, I just saw your touching post today. Your Mom, like mine, will always remain in your heart and her spirit will continue to provide comfort. My Mom passed away 11 years ago on 3/23/01 and she is with me forever. Take care...and God bless you!
Posted by: Jill Gregory | May 03, 2011 at 06:58 PM