Logically, we all know that our time on this earth, in this life, is limited. Not knowing when our time will be up gives us a false sense of immortality. We rarely think that today is going to be my last, or perhaps tomorrow might be. Even as we get older and recognize that there are more days behind us than in front, we still manage to retain that happy-go-lucky attitude. Then Lady Luck deals a fateful hand and smacks you in the face with the reality of mortality.
Having lost two grandfathers, two grandmothers, and a close aunt, I know how hard the holidays can be when you know it will be the last with your loved one. This year is going to be Peg’s last Thanksgiving with her family it is really starting to sink in that mom doesn’t have much time. (Oh my. John and Verne need their hairs cut.)
There is a forced jovialness and an effort not to address the elephant in the room. We are trying to be upbeat. We want things to be as they always have, but they are not and won’t be ever again. We don’t want to give in to sadness.
Mama is in a lot of pain and is ready to go home but reluctant to cut the day short. I get it. I am thankful we have this last opportunity to gather for mom to enjoy her family legacy.
Happy Thanksgiving.
