My mom was a loving person and she loved to laugh. Above all she loved her family and the Lord. We shared many beliefs, some good laughs over our family and our misadventures, and enjoying “NCIS.”

Her last couple of years were in an assisted living facility. She suffered a stroke but she never lost her zeal for being joyful and our family. My dad had contracted Covid and he recovered. When my mom contracted it I made the arrogant presumption that she would recover. So while I was concerned I wasn’t worried. I kept in touch with her, but then one day … I couldn’t get in touch with her. For 3 days I tried calling her but no success. I finally got a hold of one of her nurses and she got me in touch with my mom. My mom’s voice was so weak and frail sounding. We spoke briefly … I got to say “I love you” and she said it too. She told me she was sorry and then she said she wanted to go home. She dropped the phone and that was the end of the conversation. This was 2 days before Christmas 2020.

Two days after Christmas … I got the call at 2:12 AM.

There are so many moments that my mom is no longer able to be part of. My son’s graduation, my wife celebrating her ordination anniversary, my beating cancer and other milestones.

Two things I miss the most … 1) Her hugs. They were like light and peace enveloping me. 2) Just her saying “I love you.”

I take comfort in that she is at peace with the Lord, and she is seeing my grandparents and my older brother. It just hurts though … it just hurts. I admit there is some anger for my arrogant presumption that she’d be fine, but that doesn’t change the fact that my mom is gone.

I am so sorry that I took you for granted. That you would always be there for a hug or a laugh that you would always be here physically. I was wrong and I am sorry. I am proud and grateful to be your son.

I miss you mom and I love you.