100 Word Story: The Unexpected Gift of a Slow Goodbye

My mom’s slow demise from ALS gave us something special. She was able to express her heart in a way that got through to me like never before. Her words linger in my mind fifteen years later.

I wouldn’t wish slow death on anyone.

But if ALS forces it, there might be a silver lining.

For me and my mom there was.

As death hovered, I listened more carefully.

My sons were struggling and I wanted to punish.

“Stop,” she said, “your sons need relationship more than punishment.”

“Don’t make them fight for your love.”

I was shocked.

She’d never been this forceful.

So, I let her words sink in; 

I let them change me;

I valued relationship over punishment.

My sons and I are close today.

And I’m left with what my mom valued most:

Love.

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