Happy Birthday, Mom.

She would be 51 today.

This time a year ago, we were celebrating the miracle of her 50th birthday. And I knew then that time was slipping through our fingers. I knew then that it was a matter of mere months. I knew then that today would not hold candles and cake and well wishes, at least not by her side.

Call it faithless. Call it hopeless. Call it weakness.

That is what it felt like then.

But today, 365 days later, it feels like a sort of acceptance, a strength that I both resent and depend on every day. And I’ve come to recognize it as being human. To accept the inevitable and make the most of what you have in the moment is the only real way to live. She taught me that, by the way she lived and by the way she died. That is something worth celebrating. And worth crying over, which will probably happen at some point today whether I want it to or not.

Happy Birthday, Mommy. I love you so.

  • Kstaylor68

    Have tears for you as I read this, but am so glad to read your real and healthy approach to such an event in life.  You inspire me and allow me to see that when it’s my turn to walk this road, I can do it with as much grace as you are.

  • TGL

    Aw friend, hugs. No words, just hugs.

    And Happy birthday, Beth’s mommy.

  • sallynashboyd

    Love and hugs from MI.

  • http://twitter.com/Drebelle Andrea Beltran

    (bear hug)

  • http://www.sparrowandsea.com/ Jess @ Sparrow + Sea

    Hugs and love…

  • Alyse J.

    I love this even though I cried. Like you, I’d rather not have but it happens anyways. That is also part of being human. 
    She is proud of you and LOVES you. 

    Be happy on her 5-1. Celebrate. 

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