Day 116 – Extending a Hand

In the midst of a hectic day, Elijah and I attended the wake of his friends’ mother. There were multiple rooms of many people there, friends and family of the mom who passed all too soon. The father was in a side room surrounded by many people. The kids (three girls ages 12, 15 and 16) who lost their mother were surrounded by kids of all ages- friends from school and whatnot. I found myself talking for a bit to one of the mothers who was quite choked up about the situation. She told me she recently lost her father and this was tough for her.

After she left, I found myself looking at the screens above with a slideshow of the years of memories in pictures of this woman and her family. I stood there saddened for a few moments that she will miss out on so much of her daughters’ lives as they grow into women. I was sad for the daughters that will be growing up without their mother. Then, I found myself thinking of Heather. Thinking of her children and husband.

Then a wave of appreciation came over me. I found myself feeling blessed to be able to have had my mother with me all these years. I felt blessed that I have been able to see my boys growing into men.

I went over to Elijah’s friend and gave her a big hug. I introduced myself to her sisters and told them that if they ever needed anything to please just call us. Then I told Elijah and his friend that I would be happy to cook them dinner or whatever I can do to assist them as they grieve. I didn’t really know what more to say than that. What I do know is that I sincerely hope they take me up on my offer because extending a hand is really all I can do. #HGAL