- Robert Browning
When I was a little girl my mother took me everywhere with her, whether it was running errands, on personal visits or when handling business transactions. She took me places where children were usually not allowed but because I was a quiet, well behaved child they would allow or tolerate it. She would always tell me, "Bethie...this is a wonderful lesson for you...watch...listen...and learn."
I loved watching my mother because she was a remarkable woman. She was intelligent, loving, beautiful, brave and she had great passion for everything she did. She also had the most amazing people skills and could hold a conversation with anyone on any subject.
Like most women of her generation she put her family and home first. Her children's needs and desires came before her own and she was responsible for holding the family together, solving problems and maintaining a happy, healthy home.
As I grew older our bond grew stronger. I knew I would never have the people skills my mother had but I did develop a different talent...a creative talent...and we balanced out each other. My mother taught me not to be afraid of hard work, that if you wanted to accomplish something great you had to take chances and no matter what...you have to have a dream.
So we worked hard together, laughed at our mistakes together and dreamed big dreams together. We were supportive of each other so we felt braver...safety in numbers I suppose. Time passed quickly and my mother's health began to decline. We didn't take on new projects or work as hard and our dreams were replaced with health concerns.
When my mother passed away a part of me went with her. I lost my sense of direction, my balance and my best friend. I felt so empty and alone inside.
I'm in the process of learning how to live without her...and that is the most difficult lesson of all.
I love and miss you so much Mom.
Dedicated to...Violet Elizabeth Franks (August 19, 1925 - October 22, 2014)
