My memories are of a strong woman, a bit rough around the edges, but truly loving and caring inside. I can remember how smooth her dark brown hair was, and how it smelled when she hugged me. When I was in soccer, I remember her teaching me the right way to kick a ball, how she was the loudest parent in the stands.
I remember how my brothers and I were kept awake, laughing, because she snored so loud, but she is no longer snoring. Her beautiful brown hair was in disarray, and its once comforting, familiar smell was overpowered by that pungent hospital smell. The sheets were pulled high and the lights were dimmed. My two brothers, each holding one of mom's hand's cried. Keenan clenched his fists as if he was angry, while Zane wiped his tears and hung his head in confusion.
I was surrounded by family, but I felt so completely alone. I felt all eyes were upon me, waiting for a reaction. I ran from the room as my world crashed down on me. A million thoughts raced through my head. I kept waiting for someone to wake me up from this nightmare, but nobody came.
My mother was laid to rest four days later. Sometimes I think I see her face, or hear her voice in a crowd. my heart skips a beat and I begin to head toward her. But it is never her. She was a strong woman, my mother, a bit rough around the edges, but truly loving and caring inside.
