Mother's Day is a time for reflection. A time to remember the sacrifices she makes, the wisdom she dispenses, and a love that never ceases to amaze!! I've been blessed to have a loving supportive Mom whom steadfastly believes in me even when my own faith is lacking, she picks me up, brushes me off and puts me back on track. The death of Erin was a devastating blow to my life...Everything I loved was suddenly taken away and for the first time I felt utterly alone. This was undoubtedly the most difficult period of my life but thankfully I had someone to show me the way.
I hadn't cried in front of my mother in eons but seemingly every night I was bawling on her living room couch...Streams of tears flowed down my cheeks while she sat close providing emotional support and a shoulder to lean on. Mom read bible verses, spoke of folks who loved Erin and the hearts she touched but in a state of shock I questioned her death and the meaning of life. Often no words were spoken, she simply watched me consumed with grief and sorrow. Her presence was all I required at times as I didn't want to be alone and she understood that so we just sat there and stared out the window until words and tears returned. I felt like a little boy scared and confused but Mom made everything better just as she'd done many times before.
A loving mother carries the burden of her children and I was fully aware that Mom pained as she observed me spiraling downward though she'd never admit it. She loved Erin like one of her kids as they spent much time together and while Mom shed tears a rock she remained for me. Intimate thoughts and feelings were shared and recollections of Erin brought a smile to our faces, dormant memories were brought to light and we agreed that she had the life that other dogs dream of. Mom offered encouragement, advice, and knew what buttons to push as I dealt with life without my fur angel...With her support I began writing as a form of therapy and ultimately this saved my life as I truly felt like giving up.
Mom always had my best interests at heart and that love was extended to Erin throughout the years. She often referred to Erin as her Granddog when meeting folks on daily walks and actually treated her as part of the family. Thick ham bones and slices of meat magically appeared in my frig as part of Mom's master plan to spoil Erin rotten which she did a great job of. My parents dog wasn't allowed inside their house but my mom insisted Erin accompany me inside much to the chagrin of Dad. Erin and me were so blessed to have an amazing lady watching over us and that love continues today with Cody.
A Mother's love knows no boundaries and no one knows that better than me!!
Hi David. How nice it was to read these memories of your mother. She sounds like a beautiful lady. You and Erin were indeed blessed to have such a bright light in your lives. Happy Sunday!
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Tameka My mother has blessed my life beyond measure often when I don't deserve it but that's what mothers do. Erin certainly loved Mom and their relationship made me feel good inside. Thanks so much for visiting and leaving kind words behind!! Take care!!
DeleteVery lovely article about your mom and her relationship with Erin. Moms(and dads)love to see their children bound with their mom's. I see that here, you enjoyed watching your mom bound with your "little one" Erin.
ReplyDeleteI treated and considered Erin to be my kid thus it was important for Mom to treat her with respect and love. Mom knew the role Erin played in my life so when she made Erin happy she made me happy as well....It was a win win situationfor all involved.
DeleteSuch a nice article. It is lovely and heartwarming to read of reflections on your mother. I agree with you, a mother's love knows no boundaries.
ReplyDeleteHappy Mother's day, and I hope you have a great week ahead.
Cheers
Dave Thanks for the kind words!! Hope your weekend was all you asked for...Appreciate you visiting and commenting :)
DeleteWhat a beautiful story about your kind and loving mom, David! I'm so glad she was the rock for you when you went through this tragic loss of your beloved friend. You are, indeed, a blessed son!
ReplyDeleteMartha I feel very fortunate to have a mother there for me when needed as too many families are broken and dysfunctional. Mom is certainly my rock!! Thanks for commenting on this special post!! Happy Mother's Day!!
DeleteDavid this is a beautiful story of the all encompassing relationship you have with your Mom and you understand the chemistry between Mother and Child and how she would do anything to keep you safe. She also embraced Erin...knowing how much this beautiful little life meant to you..supporting you in your grief for Erin, not judging, but just quietly being there every step of the way...letting you find your way back to life..but unobtrusively shining the light on the pathway before you. She was able to step aside from her own worries for her son and be there for you....that is what a Mom does...unconditional love...you can truly feel the emotion in this piece and how it will move all who read it...thank you my dear friend for reminding us of what is important in life....Always...
ReplyDeleteRaven This was a very emotional post as I recalled that brutally painful period following Erin's death and how I wanted nothing more than to join her on the other side. Many tears were shed in writing it but this post had to written at this point in the journey.
DeleteMy mother became Mom again out of love and the need to shield me from harm which was very real...it's doubtful I'd be alive without her guidance in those dark times.
Mom's relationship with Erin was pure and she would have loved her regardless of my feelings...Erin loved Mom without limits and liked nothing more than when we went to her house. Their bond was a beautiful thing!!
Mother's do what they must to protect their offspring...they know when to let go and when to tighten the embrace. There's no manual for being a mother, they're born loving compassionate creatures willing to sacrifice all for child. When we have no where to turn a mother is always waiting with open arms.
Thanks for stopping by and blessing this post with your perceptive and accurate comment!! Your insight into the human psyche is amazing and I'm honored that decided to share your words with me!! Happy Mother's Day!!
Very nice post about your mother!!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking the time to read and comment...Have a blessed day!!
DeleteHi, David! ~
ReplyDeleteI must say that out of all the Mother's Day blog posts I've read over the past week, yours is the only one that made me cry! Your mother sounds so wonderful -- what a blessing you are for each other! Thank you for sharing!! XOXOX
Linda Glad to hear that my words and story of my mother's love moved you. My relationship with Mom is certainly on solid ground and I was glad we spent some time together on Mother's Day. Appreciate you blessing me with your words. Blessings to you!!
DeleteSuch a blessing you have in your mama,you have wonderful blessings and love to share with us, I am always grateful to read your posts....<3
ReplyDeleteJan No truer words have ever been said...I'm very blessed to have such a wonderful Mom!! I'm always thrilled when you can visit my corner of the blogging world. Hope your Mother's Day was nice. Take care!!
DeleteI'm reading a book right now titled "The Dog Who Couldn't Stop Loving." Sounds like Erin! I just liked your blog and am following. I love your blog--so tender. My old Sadie dog is almost 14 and beginning to fade. Did you catch my post about her recently? Here is the link if you are interested. http://10stepstofindingyourhappyplace.blogspot.com/2012/04/dog-is-god-spelled-backwards.html
ReplyDeleteI've never read that book though I have seen it seeing on the rack at my local bookstore...My personal bookcase is full of dog books. Erin's life would make a great book or movie :) Hopefully Sadie can hang in there for many more years!! Will check out the post dedictaed to her very soon. Thanks for visiting and following!!
DeleteWhat a touching post David...This was beautiful! What a wonderful mother you have...It is hard to see one's child in pain, but a mother would rather be no other place than by her child's side, holding his hand, while he grieves. I'm so glad your mother was able to be there for you when you lost Erin.
ReplyDelete~ blessings
A mother shields her children from pain and that's what Mom did in this instance until I was able to survive on my own. Undoubtedly you would do the same for Montana and Noah as you're a very loving protective mother. Thanks for taking the time to drop in!!
DeleteSuch a touching post David...yes, moms are the best. Glad that you are blessed with such a wonderful mom.
ReplyDeleteI'm grateful for my mom and loving support she continually gives me. Moms rule!! Thanks for stopping by!!
DeleteDear David,
ReplyDeleteThere really is no emotion in this world greater than love. I lost my dad when I was in my early teens, so my mom has been both mom and dad to me. She suffered a lot of hardships and pain, but throughout it all she remained loving and humble. She laid the foundation upon which I was able to build (grow) and it is because of her wisdom and teachings that I am the man I am today. I celebrate my mom as if everyday is Mother's Day. You were both blessed to have Erin in your lives. A wonderful, heartfelt post. Thanks for sharing David.
Mother...The Flower Of My Life
Andy Your mother sounds like a remarkable woman as is mine...We both are very blessed in that aspect!! Losing your father was a tough break but thankfully your mom proved to be so remarkable. Thamks for being part of this special post!!
DeleteA very beautiful post.... you are very true in saying mother's love knows no boundaries!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind words!! A mother's bond with her children runs deep and in most cases all other relationships pale in comparision. Take care!!
DeleteYour Mother sounds AMAZING... what an incredible example of strength and love!!! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteAmy Thanks so much for saying so!! Thanks goes to you for taking time to be part of this personal post!! Blessings!!
DeleteHow wonderful to have your mother to share these fond memories with. She sounds like a lovely woman. Thank you for sharing these personal thoughts and feelings ♥
ReplyDeleteMary Much thanks to you for taking part in this Mother's Day post...your words are certainly appreciated!! It's always nice to hear compliments about Mom which are all true in my eyes ;)
DeleteDavid you always touch my heart. I'm so glad that you have a wonderful Mom who is there for you and loved you through your grief. She sure has a wonderful son too ♥
ReplyDeleteCorinne I'm not sure what I'd done without my mother during that dark period of my life. Mom helped me out more than she'll ever know. I try to be a good son!! Thanks so much for visiting!!
DeleteOh David, this is the first time I read how much pain you went through on Erin's passing. I was away from Dave for three weeks last April and it already made me teary-eyed and sad everytime I looked at his pics on my celphone. How I wish dogs could have a longer life span.
ReplyDeleteBut I truly admire your mom, David. Because even if she's also in the grieving process, she remained strong for you. What an amazing woman!
Thank you so much for sharing such a touching post! God bless :-)
This is such a lovely tribute to your mom , David. Mothers are amazing and you are lucky that you have one an amazing one. And to have your mother stand by you while you mourned the loss of someone so special is a blessing. I think god always makes sure there is someone by your side when you are in pain. I am sure your mom loves Cordy too.
ReplyDeleteA very touching, personal account. It is wonderful that your mother supported you so well. But rest assured: you will be reunited with Erin in due course. Animals pass to the astral in just the same way that humans do.
ReplyDeleteWarmest best wishes to you!