Had to say goodbye to Mom Sunday

Pickalittle · November 1st, 2007, 12:20 AM

After 83 years, and a full life, we said goodbye to the Mom who let me have my first guitar lessons 47 years ago when she and Dad couldn't afford it. Bought me my first small guitar as a 2nd grader, went to my recitals, concerts, dances. The one who listened to my screaching rock band in junior high, my even louder (less screachy) one in high school and my Lightfoot/Taylor/Denver acoustic years. The one who prayed by my bedroom door when I was a troubled teen and who went to work so I could go to college. She was a huge factor in my development as a musician.

I did the memorial service. Sang Chris Rice's Come to Jesus (Fly to Jesus) and gave a message. I prepared but asked God to give me the words and He did so.

If you still have your Mom around, why don't you pick up the phone and call her. Tell her you love her and thank her for all she's done for you--the seen and the unseen. I can't do that anymore.

furrfurrfurr · November 1st, 2007, 12:27 AM

I'm so sorry.

Many thoughts and prayers.

Furr

lewis · November 1st, 2007, 12:28 AM

So sorry for your loss.
Thanks for sharing her with us.

amp boy · November 1st, 2007, 12:29 AM

Best with you, and from your words.....she left this place with a good heart to have such a son. I'm still trying to get my life right, and in doing so, make my mom happy as well.

I hope you and your loved ones are well, and that this time and reflection will make you closer. In her memory, live the best life you can.
take care,
and rock and roll.

hotraman · November 1st, 2007, 12:54 AM

Thanks for sharing.
Life does go by pretty fast as one gets older.
It makes you want to make things right, mend relationships, etc.
Sorry for your loss.

Tim Armstrong · November 1st, 2007, 01:08 AM

I'm deeply sorry for your loss, but so glad to hear how much your Mom meant to you.

Tim

collinsman · November 1st, 2007, 10:05 AM

Sorry my friend - I lost my mom last August to a car accident. Just think of all the happy times and she'll be with you.

Stefan · November 1st, 2007, 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pickalittle

If you still have your Mom around, why don't you pick up the phone and call her. Tell her you love her and thank her for all she's done for you--the seen and the unseen. I can't do that anymore.

I tell my mother I love her every time I see her.

I am very touched by what you wrote about your mother and I am so sorry to hear about your loss.

My thoughts and prayers are with you!

Trimmed&Burnin · November 1st, 2007, 10:40 AM

I know how that is man. I brought my mother home to pass away 5 years ago. She had been taking care of herself pretty well but there came a point to where she needed us. She was surrounded by loved ones up untill the moment she died.
My mother in law who had lived with us for 11 years passed away this last September. She got sweeter and frailer everyday, she to was surrronded by loved ones.
In both cases we were prepared, they were prepared and are now in heaven. I have to say Pickalitle, in both cases it was wonderful and difficult at the same time. God Bless you for taking care of your mother.

imwjl · November 1st, 2007, 10:51 AM

My condolences and all the best.

Spidercaster · November 1st, 2007, 10:58 AM

So sorry for your loss Pickalittle. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pickalittle · November 1st, 2007, 05:04 PM

What I'm wrestling with 2-1/2 weeks after Mom dying is that I found out about Mom being rushed to the hospital in a coma, apparently from a stroke, on Saturday morning, Oct 13, at about 10am. I had 5 services to play, 2 that night, 3 the next morning for our large church. I could have gotten on a plane and gone to her bedside, though she was unconscious as far as we know, and unresponsive. I had no idea she would die that night.
I felt the Lord wanted me to be faithful and play those sets as it heavily depended on the Tele sound for several songs. The team lovingly said to just go if I felt I needed to. I got a call from my brother after I got home from church Saturday night that Mom had just gone to be with Jesus.

The next morning I was in a fog, as I played my parts, some hymn-like, some rock style. I felt the peace of Jesus that I had made the right decision to stay and play for Him, yet now I'm feeling conflicted as to whether my presence would have meant something to her as her spirit left her frail body that night. (My Dad, brother and sister in law had just left for dinner and by the time they got back to the hospital after receiving an emergency call, she was gone).

I guess I am just sharing with you, my brothers in worship, what cost discipleship? What is more noble in the eyes of Christ? To be loyal to our loved ones at death's door and to be there for them, or to be in service to our Lord, instead?

I am sure one day I'll have an answer, perhaps on the other side. My humanity is doubting the decision I made in the spirit now.

But one thing I can share...

Mom died at the very moment I was playing the second worship set at church. It was as if, as she left this world to her eternal peace, Jesus greeted her with a hug and she could hear faintly in the background worship to the Lord, and He said, Claire, that is the sound of your son worhsipping me. I don't know what greater Homecoming gift I could give her.

abraxas · November 1st, 2007, 05:49 PM

Brother, please hear some words that come from the heart of someone that -for better or worse- doesn't share your religious beliefs, a self proclaimed agnostic.

First of all, let me offer my deepest sympathy for your loss. I can relate personally, since I lost my father, suddenly, at the age of 66, some years ago. I only managed to get there to close his eyes.

Second, from the thoughts and concerns you shared with us, I have the feeling that you are a truly decent human being, with profound feelings and ideals about his community and fellow man. Let this be your burden and your blessing, because few people today live lives enriched my those high standards. Pain is inevitable, to struggle to be the best you can, is heroism.

Lastly, as you say, your mother was a wonderful person, she lived a full and rich life and made you, in a large part, what you are today. I will not discuss religious concepts, but I can truly say that, as long as you and your family remember and cherish her memory, your mother will be alive for you and the people that loved her. May we all be thus immortal through our children and our deeds.

Pickalittle · November 1st, 2007, 06:25 PM

Abraxa:
Thank you for your integrity, honesty and noble words. I appreciate them very much.

Tim Armstrong · November 1st, 2007, 06:31 PM

It's much less important to be there for her death than it was to have her in your life, and it sure sounds like you had a rich and rewarding relationship with her.

She knows how strong the bonds of love were and are, I'm pretty sure...

Tim

Pickalittle · November 1st, 2007, 06:31 PM

Folks,
I just got to thinkin' that this is not the proper forum for the above post and I apologize for burdening you with my thoughts. I think I just had a thoughtful moment and felt like sharing it with others. I much appreciate your kind words, from whatever your religious or philosophical points of view. I respect and treasure them all.

Sincerely,
Scott

Voodoo Child · November 1st, 2007, 06:32 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.

Scott Auld · November 5th, 2007, 01:29 PM

RIP, ma'am.

dibber124 · November 5th, 2007, 01:38 PM

Sorry for your loss. May God bless you and help you through.

hal · November 5th, 2007, 02:17 PM

and saying a prayer.

BellyBoy · November 18th, 2007, 03:02 PM

I am sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers for you and your family

GoldieLocks · November 18th, 2007, 09:43 PM

thanks for sharing that with us. God bless your family.

collinsman · November 18th, 2007, 09:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pickalittle

After 83 years, and a full life, we said goodbye to the Mom who let me have my first guitar lessons 47 years ago when she and Dad couldn't afford it. Bought me my first small guitar as a 2nd grader, went to my recitals, concerts, dances. The one who listened to my screaching rock band in junior high, my even louder (less screachy) one in high school and my Lightfoot/Taylor/Denver acoustic years. The one who prayed by my bedroom door when I was a troubled teen and who went to work so I could go to college. She was a huge factor in my development as a musician.

I did the memorial service. Sang Chris Rice's Come to Jesus (Fly to Jesus) and gave a message. I prepared but asked God to give me the words and He did so.

If you still have your Mom around, why don't you pick up the phone and call her. Tell her you love her and thank her for all she's done for you--the seen and the unseen. I can't do that anymore.

My prayers are with you _ I couldn't say goodbye last August to my mom, but it's all in God's hands.

skyboltone · November 18th, 2007, 11:40 PM

Thoughts and prayers are with you Pickalittle. We lost Dad August 2. Be good to yourself, take your time. It's a process. I was Dad's primary caregiver his last 3 months. Final gifts. No unfinished business. Praise God.

Dan H

garytelecastor · November 18th, 2007, 11:50 PM

I am so sorry for the loss of your mom.
They say that the best way to find out how a wife to be will turn out is to look at the mother, and to tell how good a job the mother did is to look at the son.
Judging by the respect you have for your mom and the way you conduct yourself I'd say you had a pretty good one.
Again so sorry, and give yourself permission to grieve.

November 1st, 2007, 12:20 AM	#1 (permalink)
Pickalittle Tele-Meister Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: USA Age: 56 Posts: 292	Had to say goodbye to Mom Sunday After 83 years, and a full life, we said goodbye to the Mom who let me have my first guitar lessons 47 years ago when she and Dad couldn't afford it. Bought me my first small guitar as a 2nd grader, went to my recitals, concerts, dances. The one who listened to my screaching rock band in junior high, my even louder (less screachy) one in high school and my Lightfoot/Taylor/Denver acoustic years. The one who prayed by my bedroom door when I was a troubled teen and who went to work so I could go to college. She was a huge factor in my development as a musician. I did the memorial service. Sang Chris Rice's Come to Jesus (Fly to Jesus) and gave a message. I prepared but asked God to give me the words and He did so. If you still have your Mom around, why don't you pick up the phone and call her. Tell her you love her and thank her for all she's done for you--the seen and the unseen. I can't do that anymore. __________________ Don't die with the music still in you! Psalm 150

November 1st, 2007, 12:27 AM	#2 (permalink)
furrfurrfurr Friend of Leo's Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: South of Heaven Posts: 2,421	I'm so sorry. Many thoughts and prayers. Furr __________________ Hope I'm not too Messianic or a trifle too Satanic. Meow.

November 1st, 2007, 12:28 AM	#3 (permalink)
lewis Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,861 28 Photos	So sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing her with us. __________________ "I'm a maestro, I'm a maestro," Taj Mahal, 8/20/05.

November 1st, 2007, 12:29 AM	#4 (permalink)
amp boy Tele-Meister Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: toronto, Canada Age: 27 Posts: 330 4 Photos	Best with you, and from your words.....she left this place with a good heart to have such a son. I'm still trying to get my life right, and in doing so, make my mom happy as well. I hope you and your loved ones are well, and that this time and reflection will make you closer. In her memory, live the best life you can. take care, and rock and roll. __________________ I'm kinda like class act simplicity with a raw edge that can rip out yer bones.

November 1st, 2007, 12:54 AM	#5 (permalink)
hotraman Tele-Meister Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Camas, WA Posts: 220	Thanks for sharing. Life does go by pretty fast as one gets older. It makes you want to make things right, mend relationships, etc. Sorry for your loss. __________________ www.stevehotra.com

November 1st, 2007, 01:08 AM	#6 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Poster Extraordinaire Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Berlin, Maryland, USA Age: 49 Posts: 9,468	I'm deeply sorry for your loss, but so glad to hear how much your Mom meant to you. Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

November 1st, 2007, 10:05 AM	#7 (permalink)
collinsman Tele-Afflicted Join Date: May 2006 Location: " Land Of Ten Thousand Taxes" Posts: 1,119	Sorry my friend - I lost my mom last August to a car accident. Just think of all the happy times and she'll be with you. __________________ The Tele, my favorite axe and I love the Players - Albert Collins, Roy Buchanon, Robben Ford, Danny Gatton, Jerry Donohue, & many others.

November 1st, 2007, 10:40 AM	#9 (permalink)
Trimmed&Burnin Tele-Holic Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Bellingham Wa Age: 54 Posts: 808	I know how that is man. I brought my mother home to pass away 5 years ago. She had been taking care of herself pretty well but there came a point to where she needed us. She was surrounded by loved ones up untill the moment she died. My mother in law who had lived with us for 11 years passed away this last September. She got sweeter and frailer everyday, she to was surrronded by loved ones. In both cases we were prepared, they were prepared and are now in heaven. I have to say Pickalitle, in both cases it was wonderful and difficult at the same time. God Bless you for taking care of your mother. __________________ Keep your lamp Trimmed And Burnin Shannon,

November 1st, 2007, 10:51 AM	#10 (permalink)
imwjl Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Wisconsin, USA Posts: 1,236	My condolences and all the best.

November 1st, 2007, 10:58 AM	#11 (permalink)
Spidercaster Tele-Afflicted Join Date: May 2005 Location: New York Posts: 1,066 5 Photos	So sorry for your loss Pickalittle. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. __________________ "Just keep one thing in mind............I may remember it all differently tomorrow." - Neil Young http://www.youtube.com/user/Richeray

November 1st, 2007, 05:04 PM	#12 (permalink)
Pickalittle Tele-Meister Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: USA Age: 56 Posts: 292	Not to burden you guys, but... What I'm wrestling with 2-1/2 weeks after Mom dying is that I found out about Mom being rushed to the hospital in a coma, apparently from a stroke, on Saturday morning, Oct 13, at about 10am. I had 5 services to play, 2 that night, 3 the next morning for our large church. I could have gotten on a plane and gone to her bedside, though she was unconscious as far as we know, and unresponsive. I had no idea she would die that night. I felt the Lord wanted me to be faithful and play those sets as it heavily depended on the Tele sound for several songs. The team lovingly said to just go if I felt I needed to. I got a call from my brother after I got home from church Saturday night that Mom had just gone to be with Jesus. The next morning I was in a fog, as I played my parts, some hymn-like, some rock style. I felt the peace of Jesus that I had made the right decision to stay and play for Him, yet now I'm feeling conflicted as to whether my presence would have meant something to her as her spirit left her frail body that night. (My Dad, brother and sister in law had just left for dinner and by the time they got back to the hospital after receiving an emergency call, she was gone). I guess I am just sharing with you, my brothers in worship, what cost discipleship? What is more noble in the eyes of Christ? To be loyal to our loved ones at death's door and to be there for them, or to be in service to our Lord, instead? I am sure one day I'll have an answer, perhaps on the other side. My humanity is doubting the decision I made in the spirit now. But one thing I can share... Mom died at the very moment I was playing the second worship set at church. It was as if, as she left this world to her eternal peace, Jesus greeted her with a hug and she could hear faintly in the background worship to the Lord, and He said, Claire, that is the sound of your son worhsipping me. I don't know what greater Homecoming gift I could give her. __________________ Don't die with the music still in you! Psalm 150

November 1st, 2007, 05:49 PM	#13 (permalink)
abraxas Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Greece Posts: 330 4 Photos	Brother, please hear some words that come from the heart of someone that -for better or worse- doesn't share your religious beliefs, a self proclaimed agnostic. First of all, let me offer my deepest sympathy for your loss. I can relate personally, since I lost my father, suddenly, at the age of 66, some years ago. I only managed to get there to close his eyes. Second, from the thoughts and concerns you shared with us, I have the feeling that you are a truly decent human being, with profound feelings and ideals about his community and fellow man. Let this be your burden and your blessing, because few people today live lives enriched my those high standards. Pain is inevitable, to struggle to be the best you can, is heroism. Lastly, as you say, your mother was a wonderful person, she lived a full and rich life and made you, in a large part, what you are today. I will not discuss religious concepts, but I can truly say that, as long as you and your family remember and cherish her memory, your mother will be alive for you and the people that loved her. May we all be thus immortal through our children and our deeds. __________________ I am a little world made cunningly myspace page: The Genius Loci

November 1st, 2007, 06:25 PM	#14 (permalink)
Pickalittle Tele-Meister Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: USA Age: 56 Posts: 292	Abraxa: Thank you for your integrity, honesty and noble words. I appreciate them very much. __________________ Don't die with the music still in you! Psalm 150

November 1st, 2007, 06:31 PM	#15 (permalink)
Tim Armstrong Moderator Poster Extraordinaire Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Berlin, Maryland, USA Age: 49 Posts: 9,468	It's much less important to be there for her death than it was to have her in your life, and it sure sounds like you had a rich and rewarding relationship with her. She knows how strong the bonds of love were and are, I'm pretty sure... Tim __________________ http://www.moodswingers.org

November 1st, 2007, 06:31 PM	#16 (permalink)
Pickalittle Tele-Meister Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: USA Age: 56 Posts: 292	My apologies... Folks, I just got to thinkin' that this is not the proper forum for the above post and I apologize for burdening you with my thoughts. I think I just had a thoughtful moment and felt like sharing it with others. I much appreciate your kind words, from whatever your religious or philosophical points of view. I respect and treasure them all. Sincerely, Scott __________________ Don't die with the music still in you! Psalm 150

November 1st, 2007, 06:32 PM	#17 (permalink)
Voodoo Child Tele-Meister Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: new jersey Age: 51 Posts: 122	I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.

November 5th, 2007, 01:29 PM	#18 (permalink)
Scott Auld TDPRI Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: South Florida Age: 38 Posts: 66	RIP, ma'am.

November 5th, 2007, 01:38 PM	#19 (permalink)
dibber124 Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Long Island, New York Age: 54 Posts: 1,192	Sorry for your loss. May God bless you and help you through. __________________ "I feel that it is healthier to look out at the world through a window than through a mirror. Otherwise, all you see is yourself and whatever is behind you." - Bill Withers

November 5th, 2007, 02:17 PM	#20 (permalink)
hal Tele-Holic Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 823	Sorry.. and saying a prayer. __________________ Wherever you go, there you are.

November 18th, 2007, 03:02 PM	#21 (permalink)
BellyBoy Tele-Holic Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Chula Vista, Ca Age: 48 Posts: 574	I am sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers for you and your family __________________ http://www.johnnymannion.com http://www.myspace.com/johnnymannionband

November 18th, 2007, 09:43 PM	#22 (permalink)
GoldieLocks Tele-Holic Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Abbotsford B.C. Posts: 833	Mom... thanks for sharing that with us. God bless your family. __________________ "How little I know inspires me tremendously! I'm a huge fan of other people's playing." Bonnie Raitt

November 18th, 2007, 11:40 PM	#24 (permalink)
skyboltone Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: South San Francisco Age: 58 Posts: 338	Thoughts and prayers are with you Pickalittle. We lost Dad August 2. Be good to yourself, take your time. It's a process. I was Dad's primary caregiver his last 3 months. Final gifts. No unfinished business. Praise God. Dan H __________________ The last of the World's great human beings!.....well, OK, one of the last of the World's great human beings!.... Oh, OK, just a perfectly ordinary slacker......

November 18th, 2007, 11:50 PM	#25 (permalink)
garytelecastor Friend of Leo's Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Minnesota Posts: 3,528 18 Photos	I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. They say that the best way to find out how a wife to be will turn out is to look at the mother, and to tell how good a job the mother did is to look at the son. Judging by the respect you have for your mom and the way you conduct yourself I'd say you had a pretty good one. Again so sorry, and give yourself permission to grieve. __________________ éí 'aaníígÓÓ 'áhoot'é Would you mind holding this bag while we go through the custom shop????? Redd Volkaert is a Jedi Knight at one with the Force!!!