The morning of my mother’s funeral, I reached into the pocket of the handbag I brought. (I don’t usually carry a bag, but I thought I might need it in NY.) I don’t remember what I was looking for, but what I pulled out was an envelope that said “Last Words June Postrel 2014.” Now, that was dated 6 years prior to her death and I had no idea she ever wrote it, let alone how it got into my bag.
Inside was a simple, one page sentiment: “You’re all here today to say goodbye to me for the last time. Know that I had a wonderful life — devoted parents, wonderful in-laws, Leo, the love of my life, and four outstanding children, loving grandchildren, and loyal friends. My wish is that you tell stories about times we shared, some fun, some trying, but all of us having each other to share with. Stay close and remember my favorite saying: “You know what? I love you.”
I must have shoved it in my bag when I was emptying out her apartment the month prior in a rush, but had no recollection of seeing it before the day of her funeral. It couldn’t have been a more Mary’s Believe It or Not moment!
Wow — that is definitely an entry in Pammie's Believe It or Not! I remember your many posts before she left — so many wondrous experiences that would also qualify. There are things we know, and other things we Know. I am always trying to stay tuned into the "Special K" type!
Like the Cheshire cat’s smile, the warmth of her love stays after the rest of her has disappeared— though the last time I saw her was 46 years ago. Fun to look in that mirror.
46 years — how can that be? I last saw your Mom in some church somewhere (of course) — with Bebe Fitzgerald I think. It was like absolutely no time had passed. Polly will always be a treasured mom-figure to me. <3
The morning of my mother’s funeral, I reached into the pocket of the handbag I brought. (I don’t usually carry a bag, but I thought I might need it in NY.) I don’t remember what I was looking for, but what I pulled out was an envelope that said “Last Words June Postrel 2014.” Now, that was dated 6 years prior to her death and I had no idea she ever wrote it, let alone how it got into my bag.
Inside was a simple, one page sentiment: “You’re all here today to say goodbye to me for the last time. Know that I had a wonderful life — devoted parents, wonderful in-laws, Leo, the love of my life, and four outstanding children, loving grandchildren, and loyal friends. My wish is that you tell stories about times we shared, some fun, some trying, but all of us having each other to share with. Stay close and remember my favorite saying: “You know what? I love you.”
I must have shoved it in my bag when I was emptying out her apartment the month prior in a rush, but had no recollection of seeing it before the day of her funeral. It couldn’t have been a more Mary’s Believe It or Not moment!
Wow — that is definitely an entry in Pammie's Believe It or Not! I remember your many posts before she left — so many wondrous experiences that would also qualify. There are things we know, and other things we Know. I am always trying to stay tuned into the "Special K" type!
I love your mom in the mirror—I love your take-away, that she’s always there 🙏
It was super eerie and wondrous! Those events that pulverize and tenderize us really make us more open to the miraculous!
Like the Cheshire cat’s smile, the warmth of her love stays after the rest of her has disappeared— though the last time I saw her was 46 years ago. Fun to look in that mirror.
46 years — how can that be? I last saw your Mom in some church somewhere (of course) — with Bebe Fitzgerald I think. It was like absolutely no time had passed. Polly will always be a treasured mom-figure to me. <3
Mary, just leave it to your wonderful mom to pull something like this! Yes, the mirror is a metaphor for everyone, not just mothers.