I gave my mom a book titled 'All About You' and asked her to write in it. It asked questions on all subjects. She not only wrote in it, but threw in some important pictures and a couple of recipes. I carry that book around, in a box. When I think of her I pull it out and the words and pictures give me a lot of relief. She's been gone a long time in body, but her words and spirit keep me fresh and alive with her. (I gave the same book to my dad, he filled out 2 questions and gave up. He wrote me a letter and gave me 'A Short Guide to a Happy Life' by Anna Quindlen, and signed it with a short note.) I was raised independent also, and back then, knew because I had a small family that someday I'd need comfort, and this was how I set myself up.
This brought tears to my eyes. Not long ago we learned my mom has less than 6 months to live. These are the questions I yearn to know the answers to, but have felt too awkward to ask. Now I just might.
If I was dying I would be touched that my child wanted to know me in this way. My mom died suddenly and unexpectedly. I’ve had to ask my dad these questions but I wish I had asked my mom.
YES! Rote anything is useless and self-delusional. We shouldn't do anything without passion, this is life, after all. That being said, wished I had asked my parents all these questions and more. Now it's too late. Great post.
i love this list of questions. sending to my mom and grandma immediately. i had a realization that i didn’t know anything about my grandma’s childhood etc, and that once she’s gone, all that is gone with her. i’ve been making a point to ask her about her life, and it’s given me a great deal more of empathy and understanding for her. i like to practice gratitude while i’m cleaning. as a girl, all i wanted was my own house (i asked my parents to buy a mobile home and put it in the backyard for me lol). so every time i’m dusting or mopping, i think, i’m so grateful my dreams have come true. i feel like it imbues my place with love.
I gave my mom a book titled 'All About You' and asked her to write in it. It asked questions on all subjects. She not only wrote in it, but threw in some important pictures and a couple of recipes. I carry that book around, in a box. When I think of her I pull it out and the words and pictures give me a lot of relief. She's been gone a long time in body, but her words and spirit keep me fresh and alive with her. (I gave the same book to my dad, he filled out 2 questions and gave up. He wrote me a letter and gave me 'A Short Guide to a Happy Life' by Anna Quindlen, and signed it with a short note.) I was raised independent also, and back then, knew because I had a small family that someday I'd need comfort, and this was how I set myself up.
Love this.
This brought tears to my eyes. Not long ago we learned my mom has less than 6 months to live. These are the questions I yearn to know the answers to, but have felt too awkward to ask. Now I just might.
Oh I hope you do.
If I was dying I would be touched that my child wanted to know me in this way. My mom died suddenly and unexpectedly. I’ve had to ask my dad these questions but I wish I had asked my mom.
That is a very important perspective. Thank you!
YES! Rote anything is useless and self-delusional. We shouldn't do anything without passion, this is life, after all. That being said, wished I had asked my parents all these questions and more. Now it's too late. Great post.
Thanks, Jack <3
i love this list of questions. sending to my mom and grandma immediately. i had a realization that i didn’t know anything about my grandma’s childhood etc, and that once she’s gone, all that is gone with her. i’ve been making a point to ask her about her life, and it’s given me a great deal more of empathy and understanding for her. i like to practice gratitude while i’m cleaning. as a girl, all i wanted was my own house (i asked my parents to buy a mobile home and put it in the backyard for me lol). so every time i’m dusting or mopping, i think, i’m so grateful my dreams have come true. i feel like it imbues my place with love.
A mobile home in the backyard for the kid — I just love that image
Oh I like this idea, esp if I’m not feeling grateful.