The daffodil bulbs that my dad and my four year-old-son Joseph planted on a cold, rainy day in October bloomed for the first time this morning, a little late because of the long winter, but beautiful nonetheless. It seemed like a special, quiet message from my mom as I walked past them this morning. Keep going. Have faith. The spring will come.
For all those working so tirelessly for peace and justice for adoptees -- a cause so close to my mom's heart -- I would say the same. You are like my dad and Joseph working in the cold and the rain, perhaps with a long winter of waiting ahead, but your work will be worth it. The result will be beautiful. Keep planting. Keep waiting. Don't lose the faith. Change -- beautiful change -- is coming. I just know it.
Sorry for your sad anniversary. Your mother was a powerful and important voice for adoptee rights.
ReplyDeleteThank you Robin. Thanks for reading.
DeleteJenn, thank you for your beautiful post. I have been working with your mom for the past 16 years and think of her often as I face opponents and legislators. She was a gallant warrior for access to original birth certificates for adoptees and she inspired me and countless others with her blog and work with the NJCARE legislative team. She is missed greatly and will never be forgotten. And, yes, change is coming. Tom McGee
ReplyDeleteThank you Tom. I know she admired you so much.
DeleteJenn,
ReplyDeleteI have been thinking of you so often in these past few weeks, leading up to the 1 year anniversary. I thought you might post something today, and as always, your writing is so beautiful. I miss your Mom. Sometimes, I randomly hear her laugh in my mind, and it makes me smile. Other times, I think of her and am sad for all that this world lost when she died-a wife, Mom, Nana, advocate, friend. Wishing you peace as you remember your Mom today and everyday. Love you. April
Thank you so much April. So many good times together at the beach and yes, so many laughs. Love you too! Thanks again for this comment. Love, Jenn
DeleteIt's incredible how you have kept your mother's legacy alive. Peace on this day.
ReplyDeleteLove you Jess. You were there for me every step of the way last year (and continue to be there for me). Thank you.
DeleteI think daffodils are a very fitting tribute to your mom:
ReplyDelete" And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils."