Words Optional
Dec 8 2011 in Blog Party, Blogs, Caring for Parents and Kids, Events, Jo's Blog by Jo
Wednesday was another visit with my parents. Mom continued with her inquisition, focusing again on my deceased wife intermixed with adament statements about how she was not my mother. We vacillated between being siblings and being distant relatives.
I tried a new track and asked them both what they wanted for Christmas. Dad didn’t answer. He barely lifted his head. Mom paused for only a second before answering, “Come over and have dinner with us.”
Huh! I hadn’t expected that but thought why not! I know their favorite food, fried chicken and coca cola. Something even I can do. Christmas dinner it is.
It was lunch time so I walked Mom to her table. She held my hand and high-stepped behind me. She was happy. I then went back to Dad and waited for his wheelchair to be brought out. Dad was barely responsive to all questions or comments so I just sat quietly next to him and looked across the room at Mom ensuring she was still alright and that she stayed in her seat at the table, when I felt it… a hand, my Dad’s hand.
Dad had placed his hand on my knee. His eyes were still closed, his head down, but he’d gently laid his hand on me letting me know we were still connected.
No words necessary.
G-J said on December 8, 2011
Oh, Jo, very sweet. You write so beautifully.
Denise said on December 9, 2011
Ooohhhhh, Jo. Oh, I’m reaching for the tissue. Oh, my. Wow!
You spoke about being present with family at your brother’s funeral. This, too, speaks about the power of presence. When we stay in the here and now, the connections in our presence can become the meaning in our lives.
Bette said on December 9, 2011
Hi Jo,
Thank you so much for sharing this moment with us.
What a wonderful connection you and your dad shared.
I am grateful for your reminder to watch for those very precious moments; sometimes they come very softly and quietly. They give us energy for the more difficult ones.
I hope for many more special moments like that for you.
Jenny W said on December 9, 2011
I’m with Denise on this – reaching for a tissue too.
What a wonderfully sweet day (the dinner invite and the hand). Thank you for sharing it.
Kaye Swain said on December 9, 2011
Oh! What a sweet and wonderful gift for you!!!!
Kathy said on December 9, 2011
Jo,
Ohhh I love fried chicken.
Sounds like a wonderful dinner plan
And then, what an awesome moment!
I got shivers reading it.
To share the silence with your father and know that a million words of I love you were expressed in just a touch!
Merry Christmas
kristin said on December 9, 2011
Oh, Jo, this brought tears to my eyes. What a truly beautiful moment. Thanks. Enjoy your Christmas dinner!
Trish said on December 10, 2011
A beautiful moment, Jo. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.
roaringmouse said on December 13, 2011
Jo,
That last sentence says it “all” beautifully. What a gift box to receive to treasure. Enjoy!