Anyone who has lost a parent knows that success is always bittersweet without being able to share it with them.
I’ve had the goal to write and publish my second book ever since I published the first one four years ago. Now that I’ve done it, I can’t help but wish my mom was here so I could give her a signed copy of it like I did with the first one.
While working on my new book, I made a goal to become the #1 new release in my category and the #1 best seller in my category. Now that I’ve reached the #1 new release in all three of my categories and been in the top ten best sellers in all three of my categories, I can’t help but wish my mom was here to see it.
The sweetness of my success is always mixed with a touch of sour in her absence. I know she’s still a part of my success. I know she’s still here in her own way. But she’s not really here. She’s not really a part of it. It’s okay to say and feel and acknowledge that.
And it’s okay to say that it sucks—that everything sucks just a little without her.
But I’ve also learned to look for and appreciate the ones who are here—who are very much a part of it all.
So I just want to thank you all for being such an integral part of my success and this journey. You support me in so many ways and you don’t have to. I truly appreciate it and will always be so grateful for this community.
And a special shout-out to my husband for getting me this delicious cake and reminding me that it’s okay to celebrate my accomplishments. You’ve been by my side through it all and your support means the world to me.
I will always miss my mom in moments like this, but I also know that none of this would have ever happened if she was still alive and well. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today—the writer I am today—if my mom never had Alzheimer’s. I am where I am today because of what she went through.
And that very fact means that she is very much a part of it all, even if she isn’t here to take any credit. She wouldn’t anyway.
Your mom is guiding your journey Lauren and I know she’s so proud of you, as mine is of me. It does suck not being able to share our heartaches and successes with our moms. My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer 3 years ago and I never told my mom because I was afraid all that would stay with her was the worry about us and what we were going through. She ALWAYS worried about me. And I ALWAYS shared my worries and joys with her first. Michael is still responding well to treatment and we are buying a new home. I wish she was here to share it all with me. Although I know she is around and watching over me, it’s not the same.
Sending you a hug. Can’t wait to read your book.
Judy ONeill, your soul sister in NY
Your book helped me a lot !! I enjoyed it immensely. My mom has late stage Alzheimer’s but I really related to your story. It made me feel less alone in this journey. I can feel the love you have for your mom in every page ! I am sure your mom felt it too!! She was lucky to have such a loving daughter by her side!! Most parents never get a chance to feel that kind of love ! Congratulations on your book and thank you for sharing your story !
Thank you so much! I’m so sorry you are going through this. I’m glad my book helped you feel a little less alone. Would you mind posting a review on Amazon for me? I would really appreciate it!