Indepence Day

Another Independence Day has come & gone. I have memories of an Independence Day of almost seven years ago. On July 4th, seven years ago, we sat at my Mother's bedside watching her painfully slipping away from us. On July 1oth, our Mom passed away. Independence has taken on a whole new meaning. On June 22 of this year, we lost our little Bandit who would have turned 17 this month. He, too, has found his Independence. Here is the poem written by my niece, Melissa, for my Mom. GRANDMA'S INDEPENDENCE DAY


Grandma's Independence Day will be sad, yet sweet, I'd say.
Her dependency was brought on by Parkinson's Disease.
Grandma's courage was amazing as her limbs began to sieze.
With trembling hands, Grandma did her best
To take good care of her humble nest.
But as time went on her dependency grew.
Grandpa stepped in and did what she couldn't now do.
Grandma's mind was still sharp,her quick wit still strong.
You could always count on Grandma to sing you a song.
With determination and love, she made the best of each day.
While her body would trap her in an unthinkable way.
So, here we are now in the hospital room.
We're so full of sadness, heartache and gloom.

Grandma's time is drawing near. Her body is now failing.
At times, it feels our hearts will break. The grief is overwhelming.

While working through emotions, an image filled my mind.

There was Grandma, flying! No signs of Parkinson's could I find!

I realized then what it would mean for her to pass away.

Freedom from illness, what an event!
Grandma's Independence Day!
Her beautiful spirit will color the sky
Like a magnificent firework on the Fourth of July!

So, it's okay, Grandma. Spread your wings, Fly to the Heavens and do glorious things!
We'll miss you so much! Oh, how we will! But, grateful we'll be that you're no longer ill.
Now as one journey ends and a new one begins, I guess I'd have to say,
Freedom rings for you, Grandma!! We Love You So Much! HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!