everyday

is Mother's Day. each minute, every hour, day after day is filled with the love and hope and peace that children bring. admittedly some days are more idyllic than others, but even on those most frantic, crazy, insane days - we wouldn't forgo the delight of hearing the words 'hey mom'.

for those of us whose children have moved away, the sight of them on our caller id or email list brings the biggest smile. and the declaration of love at the end of a phone call or letter warms our heart. no matter how many times you hear it. or read it. or remember it. four simple little words spoken by your child brings that simultaneous sparkle and tear to your eye, 'I love you, mom.' sweeter words were never spoken.

for those of us who have lost their mother. the day is bittersweet. while filled with lovely memories, the ache returns. the thought of being able to hear her voice. feel her touch. see the loving look in her eyes. to be able to say just one more time, 'I love you, mom.'

this past week we visited my parents grave in southern Indiana. they are buried in a rural cemetery amid generations of family. I sat at their grave and talked quietly. at peace under clear blue skies and a soft breeze. tears rolled down my cheeks. tears of joy for the life they had given me. tears of happiness for the memories we shared. tears of sadness for the little hole in my heart that still misses them.

as we left, I looked out the window and saw the sunbeams radiating down from the sky. that beautiful sight always makes me pause and say hello to them in heaven.

'I love you, mom.'