Changes

I called out as I let myself into Mom’s apartment. I set her groceries on the kitchen table. Mom was in her usual place—on the sofa—sipping tea and watching TV. She didn’t get out much anymore. These days her worldview was filtered through Judge Judy and The View.

I had a hard time getting used to this “new” mom. Reading and lively discussions were once her forte. Now it seemed all she did was watch TV for hours on end.

I wanted my mommy back, but age and illness were taking her away. It was hard to accept. Mom used to have boundless energy; now even brief walks wore her out. And she was getting increasingly forgetful. On several occasions, she’d left food cooking and forgotten about it. She could’ve caused a fire. Nowadays, I had to accompany her to every doctor’s appointment to make sure her needs were communicated and she understood treatment plans.

Later at home, I read an entry in my favorite devotional about giving thanks in all circumstances. I let the lesson sink in and prayed. No, my mother wasn’t the same; her life was changing, but at least I still I had her in my life. There was still much to be thankful for. Change is inevitable, but love never falters.