Pulling together memories of your life-time with your siblings to celebrate a parent, is enlightening. Interesting that the same events, are remembered differently and evoked different memories for each of us. I was touched that one of the memories I shared touched all of us...some for the first time and others again. I'd like to share it with you here.
In the early 90's, I began to volunteer as a Buddy with the New Orleans AIDS Task Force-NOAIDS. Buddies provide emotional support to people living with AIDS. I began as a buddy but quickly became a coordinator, who was available to new buddies and other buddies who needed help and support. It also meant stepping in when matches didn't work. One such match was a young man who was end-stage. We met him at his home-then he was taken to a nursing home for stabilization and then to Project Lazarus where he lived until he died. I generally went twice a week-one day after work and one day over the weekend. His own mother had passed away and he was estranged from the rest of his family.
Christmas that year, my family came to celebrate in New Orleans. Mom and Kat came with me to Project Lazarus. I soon discovered that my Mom was sending cards to my buddy. During one of my weekend visits, my buddy said: "I talked to Mom today." This worried me. His Mom was dead and they say that when it's close to your time, your friends and family who have "crossed over" often come. I said: "But sweetie, your Mom is dead." He looked at me like I was nuts and said: "I know, you know-Mom-Mom in St. Louis." Here he was talking to my Mom. It was up to me to go through his things when he passed away, pick up his ashes, and plan the memorial service for him. Imagine the tears in my eyes when while going through his things I found at least a half a dozen cards from Mom. That's "our" Mom...and he wasn't the only one.
Oh Michel-Huge merci-your words about Mom touched me as well. I think I've described her before as having a "heart that holds the world". You know it goes both ways, they are very fortunate to have you and André right across the street. I know I feel better knowing that you guys are there for them. Can't wait to see your "moon" card in the flesh! Love you guys a bunch-Moi
Posted by: Laury Bourgeois | August 03, 2011 at 06:59 AM
Laury,
Being fortunate enough to live across the street from your parents for the past 18 years, the story you shared on this post about your Mom does not surprise me, and I am also touched by it. I am so glad she was there for your buddy when he needed a Mom!
Your Mom has such a huge heart for helping others with her genuine concern and comfort. Whether here for those in Ferguson, Missouri, or for those across the miles, or across "The Pond", she has touched many lives with her motherly care.
Even though my own Mom lives not too far away from me, your Mom is a comforting motherly presence for me near home. Thanks for sharing her (and especially for me…sharing your Dad too)!
Posted by: Michel Kelly | August 03, 2011 at 05:04 AM