To Jacqueline Joyce Goodhue Lumbra

Life I was given to excel and acheive.
Welcomed to humanity with a slap on the back.
Starting out slowly unsure of the terrain,
things were shacky and unsteady at best.
Though a quick learner things progressed.
But that didn't stop the growing pains.
I learned discipline and self-respect and respect for others.
Treat others as you wish to be treated, even though you were treated unkind.
Turn the other cheek and return home with handprints on both sides.
I could tell good from bad and right from wrong.
Choosing the proper, however, was another story.
Like taking blame for the deeds of another or blaming others without cause.
Both of which took a long time to heal from.
I finally married the woman that I should have when I was younger.
Life got in the way.
I've forgiven those that told me I couldn't or flat out told me no.
I've got my health and I am happy.  I'm much better now.
It's been a long time since you've gone.
I can only trust that you hear me when I say, I love you.
Happy Birthday to you, Mom.