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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Memory (07/10/08)
Children often cling to a blanket for security, searching for the satin binding to stroke while drifting off to sleep. I preferred being wrapped in Mother’s arms, rubbing strands of her hair to feel its silky softness. For me, her face held unrivaled beauty, its image etched into a mental still shot that will not fade, wear away, be lost or become outgrown. It is my very earliest recollection, a jewel.

Building blocks for life were formed on Mother’s lap. Topping the list in importance: Love, Trust, and Respect. Learning happened without a conscious awareness of it.

A lifelong bond was struck between Mother and me. Later, we laughed at Mom’s telling how she cried with the news she was pregnant, again. The plan was to stop at three children, I was number four.

There were a few occasions in passing from baby to childhood when new lessons were learned using a different perspective–no longer cradled in Mother’s arms but stretched across her lap. Those lessons also rank high: Obedience, Consequences hurt (as a mother in my own right I came to realize how it hurts to have to meet out punishment) and Restored Right Relations.

The time eventually came when my older siblings, one after the other, flew the nest to try their wings at life-on-their-own. Then Mom was grateful to have one remain at home a few more years and ease her into a final empty nest.

Mother and I enjoyed a long adult relationship as friends, so close she could choose something for me from a store to wear and it would be perfect for my taste.

Not everyone is given the opportunity, or privilege, to experience the full circle of life when roles are reversed. I was so fortunate. Together with my brother and sister, we were able to live out the early lessons Mother had instilled as we, along with my husband, cared for her in Love, Trust and Respect until she departed us to realize fully the glory of heaven in the presence her Lord and Savior.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Patty Wysong
07/18/08
A tender, sweet memory! I really liked the opening lines of being wrapped in Mother's arms, rubbing her silky hair.
Terry Walker
07/21/08
The mother's love. It may be the closest to Christ's love we receive here on earth. I glad you had that time with your mother.