L.G. Emerson, guest author
Years ago, my mother requested me to write down 7 things I learned from her. Apparently the Ladies Guild at her church in upstate New York were inspired by the pastor to take on this project. I thought about it for weeks, jotting down ideas in an old grammar school composition book. And then it slowly evolved into a poem. I share this with you for several reasons. It not only brought a lot of joy to my mother but it synthesized thoughts and emotions that otherwise were muddled and lost in one’s mind. I believe writing is complimentary therapy to reading and talking. It helps organize thoughts and experiences, establishes cause and effects, resolves lingering issues and heals old wounds. I encourage you to try it. Even if your mother has passed away, it still is a lovely way to cherish her life. Happy Mother’s Day!
7 Things I Learned From My Mom
When I was just five, you kept me alive.
I lied still in an old cedar chest,
And I learned that I was blessed.
I needed you then- you were always my friend!
When I was just seventeen, it was a very sad year.
You showed me the way to shed a good tear.
You see, my father had died, I wanted to hide.
You showed me the way to find some good cheer.
When I was still very young, I acted the fool.
Yet, you guided me through school.
You lent me your strength to be a good man,
when your dear mom had passed away in my hand.
You taught me how to love my dear spouse,
And fill with love our own blessed house.
Now my wife was my life,
You loved us as one, as a mom loves a son.
When I was 31, we had a girl and a son.
I learned to be glad just to be a good dad.
It was a joyous good time.
It was a joyous good time.
When I was 35, I wasn’t quite alive.
There was a big void- I didn’t know why.
I still needed one friend until the very end.
You showed me the Word with your love for The Lord.
And now that I’m old, life isn’t so cold.
I find in your heart the warmth of a hearth.
When they lay me to rest in an old cedar chest,
I’ll know I was blessed with your love to the end.
You were always my friend! You were always my friend!
L.G. Emerson
18 February 2006