Another Type of Lesson
I miss my Mom every day. I might be walking through a bookstore, watching some mystery (our favorite) on television, or just resting my overactive mind for a minute. Without notice, there she’ll be. I love those moments. I love my Mom.  
There are so many stories to tell about Kissy, and so many people who could tell them. No, I’m not just talking about her giant brood of Children and Grand Children. Mom affected people well beyond that small reach. I sure am blessed to have Her with me, day in and day out. Very, very lucky to be her baby boy. 
Mom taught us so many things directly, yet it is the indirect that crosses my mind today. Maybe “indirect” is not exactly the right term, but it’s as close as I can get at the moment. You see, I find it as no surprise that the first game of the Astros second appearance in the World Series starts on Her Birthday. Hang in there y’all, ” there’s gold in them hills”. 
In 2005, at the ages of 80 and 85, Mom and Dad accompanied my brother and Sister-in-Law to game 4 of the National League Division Series. As fate would have it, the Astros defeated the Atlanta Braves in 18 innings. That contest turned out to be the longest game in Post Season history; 5 hours and 50 minutes. I can assure you of two things other than Hunter’s fear he had taken time off of their lives: 1. Mom only agreed to go in order to be with Hunter and Betsy and 2. She “sweated” every pitch. Putting her all into the success of our team. 
No, Mom was no huge sports fan. She was a fan of Her Family and Friends. Loyal as the day is long, She worried about the Astros, Cowboys and the University of Texas because We all did. She rooted for the success and happiness of everyone She knew.  
Make no mistake, she enjoyed every minute of it. She wanted to be with Us. She wanted to see us smile, hear our cheers, feel our emotions. In the end, She wanted to hug us and make us realize that She was right there. No matter what. 
Maybe “indirect” is the right term. I believe what I’m talking about is the innate Power of a Mother’s love. The all-encompassing desire to let You know She is with you. Something so Natural, She doesn’t even know She is conveying a message. 
Momma, I’ll tell You something. I know You are here Today. We have known Your loyalty and love through our successes and most of all at our lowest of lows. Thank You for the lessons, no matter the direction from which they come. Thank God for You. I miss your worldly presence so much. 
One last thing; Since I know Dad is making You watch the Astros tonight from the Stars above, could you go ahead and get us a game one victory? Either way, I’ll look to my left and see the beautiful Lady in her chair; Two, Lipstick stained, Lucky Strike butts in the ashtray, a “delicious” vodka in hand. I’ll hear Your voice, treasure Your distinctive Southern Draw and dream of one more night in the living room with You and Dad. 
Happy Birthday Mom. I can’t even begin to tell You how much I love you. 
William
Sent from my iPhone