As we watch a nation of kiddos skip off to school today, with backpacks full of envelopes and candy hearts, I think of three precious words that I believe children need hear as well as feel: I love you. All cultures have phrases or benedictions that children must hear in order to feel safe. But when essential truths are never spoken, there can be a hole, even in the adult heart.
Thanks for sharing this, Annie. My parents were easy to say I love you and said it often. I am so grateful for that and also ashamed to write I took it for granted until I met a family more like yours. The mother could never bring herself to say it, ever. She died without ever saying, or singing, or writing, I love you to her children or grandchildren. Your dad came around and I am so happy he did. But that martini moment! Guessing you were both mystified and profoundly sad when he wouldn’t or couldn’t answer your question. Oh, babe. All I known is that you are loved by oh so many. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Oh Leah! What a lovely note. Thank you. Miss you heaps!
Thanks for sharing this, Annie. My parents were easy to say I love you and said it often. I am so grateful for that and also ashamed to write I took it for granted until I met a family more like yours. The mother could never bring herself to say it, ever. She died without ever saying, or singing, or writing, I love you to her children or grandchildren. Your dad came around and I am so happy he did. But that martini moment! Guessing you were both mystified and profoundly sad when he wouldn’t or couldn’t answer your question. Oh, babe. All I known is that you are loved by oh so many. Happy Valentine’s Day!