An Old Mother’s Letter
To all my children:
I suppose my upcoming birthday started my thoughts along these
lines...This is a good time to tell you that what I truly want
are things I can never get enough of, yet they are free. I want
the intangibles.
I would like for you to come and sit with me, and for you to be relaxed. We can talk, or we can be silent. I would just like for us to be together.
I need your patience when I don’t hear what you say the first time. I know how tiresome it is to always be repeating, but sometimes I must ask you to repeat. I need your patience when I think too much about the past, with my slowness and my set ways. I want you to be tolerant with what the years have done to me physically.
Please be understanding about my personal care habits. I spill things. I lose things. I get unduly excited when I try to figure out my bank statements. I can’t remember what time to take my medication, or if I took it already. I take too many naps. Sometimes sleep helps to pass the day.
Well, there you have it: Time, Patience, and Understanding. Those are priceless gifts that I want.
Finally, in his letter, Paul wrote, “I can do all things
through Christ which strengtheneth me.” I know I can, too!
It’s a wonderful feeling to know His eye is on the sparrow
and I know He cares for me. I guess being 80 isn’t so bad
after all!
Love,
Mom Keltner