I finally realized – today –

I’m already mourning my Mom.

I mourn the strong, intelligent, funny, compassionate,

and honest woman that my Mom was.

The dementia has already stolen her from me

with its cruel march through her mind.

I’m already mourning my Mom –

sometimes she knows me, and

sometimes she’s not sure who I am.

I can only hope with my whole heart

and entire being, that she’s not suffering –

That I could not bear.

I’m already mourning my Mom –

I don’t know how long she’ll continue

in her present state – here, yet not here.

Here in body only.

My Mom – the most influential person in my life –

the only human who has always loved me unconditionally.

My Mom – the strongest woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the most compassionate woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the most independent woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the most intelligent woman I’ve ever known, and

the wisest woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the kindest woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the funniest woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the most honest woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – the most determined woman I’ve ever known.

My Mom – yet not any longer the woman I knew.

My Mom – I’ll love you forever and you will always

live in me and through me.