My mom was a woman of words.
She taught us the words to “Jesus Loves Me,” and she told me what menstruation meant.
When I was 8, she gave me a blank book, with an inscription: “To Katherine, for your poems.”
A former English teacher, my mom taught me the meaning of “colloquial” when I was reading my favorite book, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” I used it in an essay on the book for my 9th grade Honors English class. I got an A.
Her final words, uttered 13 years ago today, were perhaps her most important. I feel fortunate my Dad and I were in the hospital room to hear them. Not all families have this opportunity, I know. I wish my sister and brother had been there too.
She had been quiet and unresponsive for several hours when we noticed her struggling to speak.
“I want to say that I love you,” she told my Dad, in a stronger voice than we expected. “And I love the kids.”
Thank you, Mom, for the words.
kheadlines 
I’m so sorry for your loss. So wonderful that she encouraged you in your writing as a child. My mother and father did too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for reading. The fact I grew up to be a writer has everything to do with my parents.
LikeLike
Thinking of you today. Love Eva
Sent from my iPhone
>
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLike
Wow, powerful.
LikeLike
Thanks, Mary.
LikeLike
What a treasured memory! It is lovely of you to share this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLike
I wish I had been there to hear those last few words, The words she said to you and your Dad are the most beautiful words to here. She never stopped teaching. I miss my best friend, but I have a part of her in you and Rebecca. Love you all! Mary Ann
LikeLiked by 1 person
You were always there for her!
LikeLike
Sniff, sniff..Beautiful! 0
LikeLike
Xo
LikeLike
Beautifully written and so powerful. Love to you.
LikeLike
Thank you, Corene.
LikeLike