I found a Mother’s Day card I gave Mariel some years back among many cards she had so neatly saved in a bundle for me to discover someday. To tell you honestly, I never even remember writing it and it was simply dated “May 2”. You know how it is with boys, we often look at occasions such as this, more like a duty than anything else. Of course I know better now.
And I still have Mariel to thank for finding a safe place for all the memories. For it seems like even then she knew that one day I would gladly give anything for the chance to feel once more her love even just for a fleeting moment (sigh).
The “Hallmark” card had a very nice photo of a flower garden (so appropriate for this blog) and had said simply–
“A mother’s love is like a garden, where the sun is always shining. Because of your thoughtfulness, my life has held many beautiful moments. Because of your caring, my heart has known a special kind of love. Happy Mother’s Day.”
And I also wrote further in the margin, ” To my loving wife, Mariel, who inspires me and makes me whole. To the mother of my child who gives us a reason to be hopeful each day. I love you now and forever. — Bong”
The words rang so true then. And even most especially now, when they try to reach out with my loving wishes through eternity.
Happy Mother’s Day Mommy from Sam and me. We love so very, very much. Now and forever.
Mariel's Garden 
So many cards. So many words we wrote – so many received. So many wishes. So many memories. So many wonderful times spent with our loved ones. So many days left, without them.
I don’t know how you will spend Mother’s Day with Sam, but I’m guessing you will find family and friends to help you both through the day. I hope so.
Thank you, Bong, for your beautiful message to me today. I wish I knew what Owen’s last words were. I trust I was there with him, in his heart.
Linda
Hi Linda,
I’m sure you were with him in his heart till the last because a mother’s love is forever.
Yes, it will be a simple get- together with Sam and family. Of course, Mariel will always be with us too. Happy Mother’s day again.
Take care,
Bong
Dear Bong and Sam,
Mother’s day is such a hard day to be without the presence of Mariel / Mom – and although she won’t be with you in body I really do believe she will be with you in spirit. So I hope you can find the quiet, peaceful and calm moments in the day – to reach out to each other spiritually and connect. You must both miss her so much – and she you.
Hugs to you all.
Dear Jan,
Thank you for your good wishes. We had a simple remembrance today as we “visited” Mariel’s memorial at Heritage Park. Sam wrote her some messages of love and had our usual flower offerings. She is greatly missed but we really know she is never truly further than a heartbeat.
Our hugs to a great mom too. Happy Mother’s Day!
What a marvellous message you wrote, Bong.
Regret is such a hard opponent to beat. Sure, you might have added some Shakespeare, or bought Mariel more roses.
But none of that matters, since there is clearly no doubt. Mariel knew that you loved her, and she still knows it today.
Thanks Robert I truly needed your very comforting words tonight. Blessings.