This date 9/11 has two significant meanings to me. First, it’s my mother’s birthday. And obviously it’s the date of those tragic terror attacks. How quickly events like that fade from people’s priorities to pause for a few minutes this morning and respect all those that perished that day. Those who continue to perish because they worked at that site, those in our armed services that have fought that threat from that day forward.
It was the only one of my mother’s birthdays that I wasn’t with her that day in 2001. I had planned to take off early and be with her for the afternoon and dinner but that didn’t work out, being it was such a busy news day.
Her birthday is a day I’m able to smile about a little bit. The anniversary of her passing is more difficult. If there is any goodness in me it’s because of her. Raising my sister and I from an early age and being both provider and both parents was incredible. Long before there was help and support for that kind of thing.
She was from a generation and time that endured a lot. And she had many personal and medical challenges. But she always came through them. She worked hard, she was strong, sometimes outspoken but very respectful, compassionate, charitable and loving. She believed there are good in everyone.
I love her and miss her but feel she is part of me always. Happy Birthday Mom.
