Page 34 - Firehouse Pond

DH

Although mom was not well educated; by the book that is. She was

intelligent beyond what the town’s folk gave her credit. She knew exactly
when to pick the fruit and always got top money for her pickings. There is no
doubt that her work ethic and knowledge of crops paid off handsomely for the
family.

FIVE MORE MINUTES

Much later in life, I recall teaching a class at a small Community College. I
would occasionally ask the students to stand up and speak about the random

topic of the day.

One case brings sadness and resolve: After each student had spoken, there

was time remaining on the clock. A student spoke up and asked me to speak
on the same topic of the day. The focus was: If you had died, but were given
five more minutes on earth, what would you do with them?

Without hesitation, I said I’d spend them sitting and talking with my mother.

I am not ashamed to admit that I miss my mother. I am remorseful that I
failed to spend more time with her. No excuse.

I miss you, mom.