Less Than 60-A Lesson in Living

My mother, Christiner W. Crosby, had less than 60 years on Earth. At age 57 she died from complications from a hip and femur fractures and a lifetime of illnesses. During her very short 57 years she did live. Here is a brief history of how she lived:

1-On December 25, 1971 she married my father. Not many people can say that they got married on Christmas. Not only did they marry on Christmas but my grandfather married them. 

2-My mother had two children, my brother John and I. Despite having to deal with bi-polar disorder for much of our childhood and adulthood she managed to raise two children who never did drugs, never were hospitalized for mental disorders, never had children out of wedlock, and managed to become two well adjusted kids. One with a beautiful family and the other who has dedicated her life to helping (teaching and mentoring) others. 

3-Parenting from the mental hospital. Even when my mother was hospitalized in state hospitals she would still call her children to parent them. One example is when my mother called me to ease my fear of thunderstorms when we lived in Michigan. The other is when she asked my brother to get on the phone after me telling her that he had not been to school in a week and did not have a fever.

4-Aftgans and crosses. My mother LOVED to crotchet and would often make her signature aftgans and crosses for people she loved. 

5-Movies and laughter. My mom loved movies and I have very fond memories of us going to the movies and or watching movies with her. 

6-Style-Even when my mother was ill whether physically or mentally, she always sported the best afro in town. 

Lastly, despite having to deal with 36 years of mental illnss and at least 20 years of physical illnesses my mother LIVED. Many would have given up at age 40, my mother lasted 17 years past that. She pushed through her pain and heartache so that her children could have their mother during the years that matter most. Sure I wish I had her at age 40, but I am thankful that she gave me her best years and taught me that true STRENGTH lies within all us. 

Moral of the Story: Stop complaining and start living! For we never know how long we will have on their earth and would not be better to have lived them living?