A friend’s mom passed away recently after a long illness, and while going through her personal items, my friend came across what she assumed was something creatively written by her mother. It was lovely, and my friend was touched. She wasn’t aware of her mom being a writer, but then again, do we really know anyone 100%?
May the good Lord be with you
Down every road you roam
And may sunshine and happiness
Surround you when you’re far from home
And may you grow to be proud
Dignified and true
And do unto others
As you’d have done to you
Her sister, who was helping her, listened carefully. While my friend somberly read their mother’s words, her sister was thinking to herself that she’d heard something similar before. Suddenly the familiarity dawned on her.
“It’s a Rod Stewart song!” she announced with the sort of pride one feels when solving a puzzle. “Forever Young.” The realization hit my friend, and both sisters fell out laughing, then crying, then laughing again. They missed their mom so much, but this little bit of comic relief lightened their sorrow markedly.
I’m grateful my friend posted her discovery on Facebook because it made me laugh. It was uplifting to think that my friend’s memories of her mom will probably include this funny snippet, and that will do wonders for easing her pain. I’m grateful that her mom’s “note” will be included in her celebration of life ceremony. I am grateful my friend shared her comic relief. It made a lot of people laugh, and laughter makes people feel good.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ~Matthew 5:4
