I've not written a novel yet, in fact, I'm just now venturing into fiction, but even if I had, I would still select my true life hero...whose bed I'm sitting next to right now, waiting for Jesus to call her home... my mom.
Update: My mom passed away peacefully yesterday, 2/12/14 with my dad and me at her side. I Love You Mom, I miss you so very much but know I now have a special guardian angel to watch over me.
This incredible woman is the epitome of selflessness and unconditional love. She reached out to many people in need during her life, and sacrificed a great deal to make sure her family was happy and healthy. She stood by my dad throughout his military career, making a home wherever we were living, be it England, North Africa or stateside.
What truly makes her my hero is her steadfast faith in God and ability to forgive. You see, she ended up with me. In my late teens I turned away from God and ventured into a life of promiscuity and alcoholism for twenty-five years. She suffered a great deal, having to deal with my antics and the cruel (albeit true) gossip of a small town. Being a Christian woman with high morals and values, my actions devastated her but not once did she close the door, even when I demeaned and maligned her.
It took many years before I reconnected with God, sobered up and became the woman I am today and I credit God and my mom for that. He never left me, nor did she.
As I sit here watching her, hours on end, I see a woman who not only gave me life, but saved it as well through her endless love and forgiveness. She has definitely earned a special place in Heaven and all I can say is, " Mom, you fought the hard fight and were victorious. Rest well - and know I love you more than words can express."
