This second Sunday in May is the second Mother's Day without my mother, since her death in October, 2023. I think this year has been particularly difficult as the family seems to pull further apart for various reasons. Most of my Mother's nine siblings have passed on, leaving two surviving siblings, a younger brother and a sister. I had intended to make a trip back to my hometown but, due to extreme weather conditions, a house move, a new job, some minor physical injuries, the circumstances have not permitted.
My mother was a strong and energetic woman of many talents, although she struggled to see many of her best strengths and to be able to reconize her special gifts. My mother played piano by ear, had perfect pitch singing alto, was ambidextrous, witty, and very entertaining. I remember so many family gatherings around the piano and organ in my grandmothers house; my mother and her siblings playing and singing piano, sometimes my grandmother on autoharp, sometimes organ. Family gatherings were frequent when my brothers and I were growing up in Charlotte and Statesville. Later these gatherings became less frequent as we all went our separate ways. Growing up, I thought my family was way too Mayberry. Today I would give anything to travel back in time to those simpler days.
"Mother's Day" was the last painting in a series depicting foals. I painted it for my mother. There were two versions, one is in my studio, it was not quite the vision I intended. Perhaps the first incarnation fell short because my mother was very much alive and well at the time I completed it. When I finished the second version, my mother's cognitive decline was very evident. Her personality had changed dramatically. She began to fall and experience difficulty breathing. Eventually speech became a problem. She would attempt to communicate but it was difficult to understand her. My younger brother and I coordinated her care. I am thankful we did not disagree. I was determined not to argue or fight with any family members throughout her final days.
Since my mother's passing, communication with family members has become more rare. Phone calls go unanswered or unreturned. This has begun before her death but has become more apparent since she passed on. I hear of families who argue and fight after a parent's death. I'm not sure which is worse, arguing or apathy. That may not have an answer.
I am posting these images of my mother and my painting, "Mother's Day" to remember my strong and faithful mother. Just as this mare is guiding her filly in perfect step, my mother did the same for me. My mother taught me an appreciation for the arts. She took me to the ballet, orchestra, opera, ice capades, movies, she made sure I had piano lessons and arranged for opportunites for me to be involved with horses. I am so grateful and privileged to have been provided for by such a gifted and loving mother.
Mother, I miss you so much every day. Heaven is blessed to have you, now, but I wish you could be here with me.
