This poem was for my mother, Lydia, who passed away on Christmas Day last year.  It was therapeutic for me writing it as I reflected on our journey together. 

My lady, my love, I will remember you. Every gaze into the mirror is a reflection of your courage, your teaching, your love, your truth.

My lady, my love, I will remember you. You blessed me with the curiosity of a cat and the determination of a rat. You taught me how to forgive and command peace even when normal convictions challenge the balance. You did not scold my competitive nature. Instead you shared how to co-exist with grace. Not to disgrace, but to show me the world does not revolve around my every whim.

My lady, my love, I will remember you. Your infectious smile consoled me during times of stress and taught me whatever worries me now will soon pass. You took my hand and held it, and showed me by your example how, just how.

My lady my love, I will remember you. You taught me that it is okay to agree to disagree at times of war just so there is peace. Because in peace is where you find your happy place to allow compromise, negotiations and resolutions.

My lady my love, I will remember you. Your wisdom has guided me through the journey and showed me how to embrace my creative energy. I often marveled at your gifts. That observations is where I learned the mother of invention is you. No means maybe, and if you don't have a ma to do things for you, just do it yourself.

My lady my love, I will remember your willful defiance has grounded me in such a way to not sweat the little things.

My lady my love, I will remember you forever and always in my short journey over time and space.