MOTHER

My first impression when I saw you lying in the Chapel of Rest was that your face had the look of a Red Indian chief! I had never seen that before. I thought of 'brave' and realised that was one of your main virtues. In the face of constant adversity you were always full of courage and determination. Like the Red Indians were persecuted and suffered for no reason but that powerful, evil men full of greed and lust wanted their land, so through no fault of your own your life was made hard because of society, the state and uncaring people.

All you wanted was a 'normal' life for your family but you got lots of illness, disappointment and heartache from all of us. You strove and succeeded to do the right thing by us all. You never wavered. You were always steadfast and true. You must have sometimes been disappointed in your family that we did not always do to you what you did to us - give kindness, care, consideration, help, encouragement and devotion. You did this constantly, always putting us first. You were never selfish. You were by far the most unselfish person I have ever met. You gave unconditional love (sometimes conditionally :-) and were determined to do this right to the end. Not just for your family but for everyone you ever spoke to.

When I saw you lying there I saw a hero, a warrior, the last of a dying breed of unselfish, proud, dignified, brave, compassionate and real human beings. We have been overrun with cowboys, bandits and exploiters. You have shown me how to be in such a situation. But I can never be as constant, persevering, cheerful and long-suffering as you. All I can do is take it one step at a time and try to stay with you every step of the way.

You are with the Supreme now. You are one with the Perfect now. You have returned to your source. When I go inside and find myself, I will find you too. You will always be with me. I hope I am always with you. Heart to heart for eternity.

Your loving son, Peter.