Just like today.
I recall that sunny 1971 day very well.
I was in 8th grade-the highest grade in our junior high-
Rough and tough, our class yelled the loudest
Our first pep rally for our junior high football guys--
We were in 8th grade and next year HIGH SCHOOL!
Couldn't wait to race home and tell my folks-
My mom tried to listen, so did my dad.
Mom lie in bed. Dad sat in a chair next to the bed.
I knew Mom hadn't felt well, I just didn't know how bad-
Until one of Mom's friends came to the house with her
Daughter who was my age, and shortly thereafter
An ambulance arrived.
As my Mom was strapped to a gurney to leave our home,
She pet our Siamese cat, Minglee, who I held
Hostage in my arms. and I leaned over to kiss her--
"Mama love" she said--like she did every night.
Then Mom told me I was to be the woman of the house
When she wasn't there.
I bit my lip. Didn't want Mom to see me cry.
That was the last time I saw my mother alive.
Three days later Mom was dead.
I was 13.
And I cried.
