Life Without Mother

Sallie Mozelle, in the seventh month of her 103rd year, fell asleep. Mother had been a constant companion in my life. I admired her wit, joy, and generous spirit, so it was my delight to brighten each day of her life with love.

Mom’s smile was contagious. She traveled everywhere with our family, and we loved the joy she brought on each journey. We shared everything, especially Christian reading material. She was indeed my best friend. I couldn’t imagine life without her. I often asked God to let us be together when “separation” drew near.

During our times together, I often looked at her in the passenger seat, observing her joy, listening to her, or watching her doze off, as I attempted to capture that moment in my mental archives. (I even wrote a devotional, “Honoring Parents,” included in the 2009 devotional book Sanctuary.) At that time, Mom was ninety-three years old, living alone, independent, and maintaining a vibrant life.

After work several times a week, I visited her to assist with household chores, personal needs, and appointments. When she was ninety-nine, I realized it was time for her to live with my husband and me. The transition had its challenges because, at that time, my ninety-five-year-old Aunt Annie Bell was also living with us.

Huge adjustments had to be made. It was only by the grace of God that all worked out according to His will. As my mother’s health declined, I considered seeing whether my aunt, who had been living with us for seven years, could move closer to her own family. It was a difficult decision. I prayed continuously, asking God for direction as both my aunt and mother needed my undivided attention.

I believed that if it were God’s will for my aunt to transfer, He would work it out. At that time, I was still working outside the home, and stress was a major factor, although I wanted to bring joy to them both. God led in my aunt’s successful transfer. Then, on a crisp, bright, and glorious Sabbath morning in December, my dear mom departed this life, slipping into a peaceful rest. As I held her hand, I thanked God for Mother. I couldn’t imagine life without her, but, you see, my God granted me the peace that “passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7, KJV), peace that I had never known. Our heavenly Father will do the same for you.

Sylvia Giles Bennett