My mom tapped my heart today and inspired this post. Have you ever run across a photo, read an old letter, or visited a place that reminded you of someone? Well, it happened to me today. I was looking through an old box for my high school senior album, and a letter fell out that my mom (Billie Ann) had written her mom (Faith… my grandmother) April 28th, 1987. I stopped and read it and it lit up my spirit, turned on a few tears, and reminded me how precious life and relationships are. Moms are so special. Here are two poignant excerpts from my moms letter to her mom. “Just wanted to let you know how much I love you and Terrie. I don’t hug you or Terrie enough. I don’t know why, except that sometimes I think that you’ll always be there. Well, next time we see each other, I’m going to hug you real tight. Thanks for giving and helping me develop the spirit and openness I feel towards life. A little rusty at times, but in the rough of the ocean of life, believe me, I will always pull through, because of the spirit to survive you have instilled in me, and the vision to see ahead and feel hope, faith and charity. YOU are so special and I love you dearly and eternally.” Your daughter (lucky) Billie Rodrigue.
So glad I didn’t miss this opportunity to get a glimpse into my moms heart. Next time you have a moment like this, I invite you to pause. Don’t rush through it, settle deeper into it. Give yourself time to connect in the moment and process what you are feeling. Today was a gift, and I am glad I unpacked what I was experiencing with care. Although my mom is no longer here in her physical form, she is here in spirit, and had I not slowed down, I would have missed her wise words. If you have lost someone special, stay awake to the signs they send letting you know that they are not far away. To be completely transparent, my mom wasn’t a hugger and I always wonder why, now I know. I never found the picture I was looking for, but I found something far more meaningful…. thanks mom for sending me a letter.
Never take for granted that someone will be here forever, and don’t underestimate the power of a hug or human touch. Next time pause, lean in, hold on tight, and hug a little longer.
Need a few facts to inspire you to hug someone? Research affirms that hugs and human touch are good for your health and mental wellbeing. Hugging for 20 seconds will decrease your stress, lower your blood pressure, and make you and the other person a little happier. Giving my mom a big virtual hug.
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