Sunday, November 11, 2007

Little Comforts

It's coming up to six months since my mother and dad passed away, their deaths occurring less than a year after my brother Joe died. There are certainly ups and downs in the process of grieving - waves of emotion when you least expect them, memories triggered by everyday occurrences or sights . So, when I saw this little book in Borders book store, it seemed like something that would be helpful and, well, comforting. It's a lovely book, with quotations, prayers and poems for all sorts of situations, and I love the sweet illustration on the cover.

There have been bright spots, too, during this healing time. My mom was a prolific house plant gardener, always able to start a new plant from a cutting, a leaf or a root. I, on the other hand, feel slightly squeamish when given a plant! Will this plant survive under my care, I wonder. A green thumb I do not have!

So, I was happily surprised when one of the plants I had taken from my parents' apartment began to bloom recently and I recognized it as my mom's Christmas cactus!!! How many years had I marveled at the beauty of this plant. I'm sure this is an offshoot of her original gigantic plant, but I feel so honored to have it! I feel like she's saying, "I'm still here, bringing beauty and comfort to your life! But, please, don't forget to water me!"

I'm pretty sure I can hear her laughing.

4 comments:

tea time and roses said...

Hello Judy, what a lovely post... I am so sorry of the passing of your love ones, but so happy to hear you are finding ways to cope. The book sounds wonderful...there is nothing like a beautiful relevant prayer or a poem when we so need it in our lives. The Christmas cactus sound beautiful, and has bloomed...wonderful! I do not have a green thumb either, plants are in trouble when they enter my home...

Hugs to you...

Beverly

Unknown said...

OH, I feel so honored to follow Beverly's comment! She visits me often at my little blog-place and I love to visit her view of world, too. If you have a moment, Judy, be sure to check out her blog. You will definitely enjoy it! Like you, she is very creative!

I love this post! It's hard to imagine losing 3 family members in such a short space of time. (I puddle up just thinking about not having my parents or 2 brothers around.) I'm sure this season has been a journey of many emotions.

I am glad that you have something that your mother enjoyed and that it is still blooming! It's amazing how people live on through the things they loved!

Many hugs,
KJ

tea time and roses said...

Hi Judy... It is the end of the week, and just popping in to say hello... Have a beautiful weekend!

Hugs to you...

Beverly

Maryam in Marrakesh said...

So much loss you have suffered in such a short while. It really gives me perspective on my own issues and concerns. You are demonstrating real grace under pressure. And thank you for your lovely comment on my blog.

PS I'm from Mass., too.