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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Singing (10/31/05)
Singing of Memories and Grace
My mom was a unique woman. I can say that today, but in my formative years I was embarrassed for her. She was a woman who suffered from a mental illness that robbed her of joy, caused her to have delusions, and separated her emotionally from her children.
My five siblings and myself were raised in an orphanage after my father died. My mother was allowed to come and given a job. Yet we did not reside with her and she gave up all rights to having a say in our lives.
We were allowed to visit during visiting hours (a couple of times a week). She lived in a room in one of the buildings on campus. It was dark and cigarette smoke filled and thoroughly depressing.
Even so, I have a special memory that can bring a smile to my thoughts and a catch to my breath. My mother loved two songs and often begged, pleaded, and cajoled her two youngest (the only ones of us left at that point in the institution) to sing them for her.
These two songs were “Memories” from the movie The Way We Were and “Amazing Grace”. I can’t state that they were sung well. I can’t even report that they were always sung in tune. I can say that our singing comforted my mother. She would close her eyes, start to hum, and begin to sway a bit. It seemed as though she was transported to a place that gave her some peace. For a moment, music reigned and pain was silent.
If I could be given one more chance to be with my mom, I would spend it singing to her. She would not have to beg, plead, or cajole. I would sing loud and strong and with joy. I would invite all I know to join me in a chorus serenading an audience of one. Music would be crowned and sadness would creep ashamedly away.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Jan Ackerson
11/07/05
Your last paragraph--and especially the last sentence--is very powerful, and brought a lump to my throat.
Carol Adams
11/08/05
What a gift you gave your mother when you sang to her. Music calms the soul. Thanks for sharing.
Paul Potenza
11/09/05
My Mother-In-Law used to love to hear me play my guitar and sing "The Little Drummer Boy" to her. Especially during her final days. I'd give a lot to be able to sing it to her one more time.

Thanks for the memories that you gave to me.

Pauly
Sherry Hoffcastel 
11/11/05
I agree- that last sentence is powerful. Well done.