Being a Presence
A mother is our first teacher. They teach us all kinds of things from walking and talking to how to share and be kind. Out of all the lessons my mom has taught me over the years, one of the best is “being a presence.” “Being a presence” is simply that, being present. Sounds simple, but it is a skill to learn and develop, just like any other. I got my first chance to learn and practice this skill when my dad was hospitalized for a week following colon surgery. I opened his hospital room door with his favorite movies and cribbage board in hand, only to find him hooked up to lots of machines, IV’s, and sound asleep. It was shocking and a bit intimidating to see all the equipment. He was in no shape to watch TV, let alone visit with anyone. I found my mom in rumpled clothes and bleary eyes from a sleepless night in the chair next to his bed, like a sentinel keeping watch. My mom was eager to have me take a shift with him so she could run home for a little nap and recharging.