It's Been A Long Road
When my mother was about my age, I was a sophomore in college. I remember her at that phase of my life. She was well-dressed, long frosted blonde hair, a beautiful smile, and a warm and inviting presence about her. She was a friend's favorite - everyone loved Janine. She also knew how to throw a great dinner party and served up bourbon shots to me and my friends when I was in town. I can see her in my mind with her Virginia Slims tucked beside her, steaming hot coffee in hand, sparkling eyes, and fun-loving personality. We used to chat for hours about my world, she was so into me. I didn't see her then, really see her, but I do now. She was not just my mom, but a woman in her own process of figuring out life. She had a past, hopes, dreams, love, passion, and also scars, secrets, and regrets. She was so very human- just like me. These days, I look in the mirror and realize that in many ways I have become my mom. My life looks different than hers in many ways, yet so many things ...