A Writer's Lament for Mom

Today, my brother and I honor our mom, Mary Catherine Johnson, in a memorial service at Southside Baptist Church in Abilene, Texas. A week ago, she was an 81 year old grandmother of one, fighting for her life in a hospital. Today, we're celebrating her life with friends and family.

As you can tell by the photo, Mom enjoyed life in all its simple pleasures: getting up, working, loving her family, and loving life regardless of the circumstances. I know she loved us, perhaps not as affectionate as some, but she loved us all the same.

My brother will give her eulogy today, probably the toughest piece of writing he's ever done, and he's delivering it today. I don't envy him. To me, this is the toughest piece of writing I've ever done as a writer. And yet with tears in my eyes, I'm writing with this lovely lady's eyes looking into mine.

We love and miss you Mom!