I’m on my porch this morning. It is cool and the birds seem grateful for that fact. The sun is playing with the trees and the result is a light show sprinkling the rays all around me like a disco ball. My fingers take the cue and dance across the keyboard. Today they are writing about love. Your love.

In the past week or so the people who loved Mom have come out of the woodwork to express their condolences. They have sent cards, texts, and messages. But it’s not just those who loved Mom, it is others who love Dad, and still others who love me and Melinda and our whole family. It is a cumulative outpouring of sentiment.  

People we haven’t heard from in years are calling to check in and tell stories of Mom. Friends making food, or sending flowers. It feels like a multitude of well-wishers pouring out their love in numerous ways. I could never thank everyone individually, there are too many of you.

But with all of my heart, I want to thank you for your love for us all during this time. I am aware it is not just this hard time in which you have affection for us, but that you have been there for our long journey, and many of you have been there for multiple seasons of our lives. For some, decades. For others, the more recent dementia days. If you have cared enough to reach out in any way, even a sweet comment on social media, you have touched our hearts.

We knew Mom had special friends in her life. You have made it evident that, no matter where she was, she had groups of friends who loved her deeply. Special people. Each of you. She and Dad have benefited from the love you showed in your relationships with them, and in your care now. Thank you for reaching out. The celebration of life service will be next week and whether you attend the service or not, we will feel the presence of your love surrounding us all.