In 1967, in L.A. County General Hospital, my mother delivered me. In other words, I was born. She told me this story one time – just one time – about how the nurses whisked me off to the nursery after delivery, and she didn’t see me for at least three days. Things were different then, I guess. (Note: Today, at lunch, she told me it was because she immediately had surgery and was subsequently moved out of the maternity ward and into a different wing of the hospital. Recovery followed.) On day four, she demanded: “I WANT TO SEE MY BABY!” I was over 35 when she told me this story, but I was just like a kindergartener wanting to hear it again and again.
Thirty years later, my mother delivered me, again, this time, from fear and agony. Not since birth had I needed her so much or known her to be more fully mother. From the isolated recess of unfortunate events, I called out to her. She was 20 miles away, but she heard me. Later, I abided in her love for me, and it led me to hope and celebration.
That night, more than a decade ago, Juliette wore a little brown and white check dress with embroidered teddy bears on the collar. Bridgette wore it once, and when she did the whole world was deaf to the memoir, and could not hear me pushing back on Woland: THE LORD RESTORES THE YEARS THE LOCUSTS HAVE EATEN.
In other words, my mom (Silent Generation) completely rocks.
POST SCRIPT
My mother had quintuple bypass surgery five years ago. I figure that’s one bypass for each of her four kids and dad. After her surgery, I told her I asked God to give her to me for 10 more years. She’s so funny. She replied, “Well if you were going to ask, why didn’t you make it 20?”
Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you.
Happy birthday to your mom. I can’t imagine not being able to see my newborn for three days. That would be awful.
Cool for you! HBD!
Ah, what a sweet idea. Be so thankful that you have your mom. Mine has been gone 12 years and I miss her more and more every single day.
Happy birthday from a fellow Libra! I remember that time in your life 11 or so years ago. I’m glad your mom was there for you.
Hmm, there’s just something about Libras that I like. Two of my dearest friends are Libras. Nora’s b-day is on the 8th, and Oma’s b-day is on the 14th.
Once again, happy b-day.
Happy Birthday, Jen!!
Happiest of birthdays Jen .. aren’t our mums great – we share that in common too …
I have been back to my mum today for some TLC – to pick up DB and unload about my resignation – it is done … I am better.
Happy Birthday!
The poem about your son is life touching. Thank You