In memory of MJ

I attended a funeral today in Lawton for MJ, my mother's long time secretary/assistant. MJ died unexpectedly last Friday from what appears to be a blood clot. She was a strong Catholic and the funeral mass was lovely. Her brother, a monk, did several readings and reflected on her life and her children all layed a flower on the altar for her. I had to giggle a bit to myself some though...MJ despised being called by her given name, Mary Jane. She ALWAYS went by MJ. But, the priest, as I'm sure is proper order of service, kept referring to her as Mary Jane through the Mass. I could just imagine MJ cringing or shooting eye daggers every time "Mary Jane" was said.

Towards the end of the service one of the daughters read a modified version of the children's book, "I Love You Forever." They added in personal tidbits about themselves and their mom and it made the story even that much more charming. As the daughter began reading, she said that a few years ago MJ had heard this story read at a funeral and she wanted it for hers.

Well, I choked up and tears just flowed as the story was read. At my mom's funeral 4 years ago my brother Dan surprised us all by reading that story (not a dry eye anywhere). MJ and my mom were very close and I consider it an honor that she wanted a piece of her service to reflect Mom's.

But, being there brings back a whole slew of memories that tear at my heart. I realize my Mom has been gone for a while but it's still difficult...no, heart wrenching, to bring up some of the memories and people from Mom's life. Several of the faculty members from Cameron were there. These are the people I grew up around--they were Mom's co-workers and friends. When I would call Mom at work I always talked to MJ first. I would go by and visit MJ even after Mom was gone. Losing her is like losing another piece of Mom and right now, in my moment of sadness, makes me miss Mom even more.

My grieve also for MJ and her family. She was well loved and raised a beautiful family of children and grandchildren. It was good to hug her daughters as we all remembered how much our mother's loved working with each other.

Shalom.