My Mother came down the hall looking for me and was crying asking about my Dad. Typically she is not quite so upset, as if she knows the answer I am going to give her and is just looking to me for clarification or a reminder. This time she was clearly very upset. Mom reacted as if she had just heard the news and was coming to me for confirmation of news she had just learned, that her husband was dead.

It was so sad and I was helpless to make her feel better. I hugged her standing there in the hallway and told her how sorry I was that Dad was gone. I said “Mom I wish there was something I could do to make you feel better, but I know it won’t change anything.” Mom replied “No there is nothing anyone can do.  I guess I am just going to feel sad until I join him.” We stood there for a minute with my arm around her shoulder and then she looked at me and said “Thank you dear for listening.”

I suggested a swim and she walked down the hall to her bedroom to change into her suit. These are the times that I will regret not being with her, to help her get through a difficult spot. But I know she did so without me before and will after I leave. But I was thankful I could be here for her just one more time.