My Second Mom

Well a lot has happened over the last few months. My mom has started a lifelong battle with cancer. It has been difficult to swallow and feels oh too familiar. A lot of memories have been coming back from when I was younger and went through a similar experience. It is hard to come to grips with the fact that none of us has control over the outcome of the treatments. Maybe hardest for my mom in particular. She has been an inspiration to me in every aspect of my life. First of all she stepped in when my first mom passed away and took on 5 little boys who were a handful and half. The most amazing part of it was that she did it well. Despite the gripes, complaints, back talking, bickering and pain that we inflicted on her. At first she must have done it because she loved my mom so much but very quickly she did it because she loved us so much. The consistent discipline and listening that she gave me shaped me into who I am today. She has been there for me in every high and every low in my life. No one person has been less critical and more understanding then she has been to me. Even at times as a teenager, when I didn't understand life and thought my parents didn't understand me, or anything else for that matter, she patiently listened and taught me about life and how to enjoy it's journey. The good and the bad. It wasn't about the high's or low's it was about enjoying the ride. Sometimes the way she taught me was soft and kind and other times it was direct and piercing. It has been such a great ride we have shared together and she is certainly not at a high point, yet she has been a high point to me my whole life. I love her dearly and she has never been a step mom to me. She has and will always be my second mom in whom I love and plead for her health and well being. I pray that she will endure this well as she has helped me to endure my life's struggles so well. I love you mom. Keep hope and enjoy the journey.