Last year for Black History Month 2023 the theme was ‘A Salute to Women’. I did a piece dedicated to some of the amazing women in my life including my mum.
Since then my mum passed away this year in April. However this year and over the past few years some friends and family have also said goodbye to their mums.
I don’t know where I am in my grief journey but over the last few weeks, my thoughts have very much been on my mum and where I stand in my life. I wrote the following piece, the same day after my mum’s celebration service or funeral. At the time I was thinking about my mum’s story and how it had come to an earthly end. However, Black History Month this year is focused on ‘ Reclaiming Narratives’ or stories
Even though there’s sadness in this piece. Reading it again in October has motivated me to utilise opportunities to share the nuances and stories of my mother’s life.
I dedicated this piece to all whose parents have passed away. Don’t let their story pass away with them. Today, reclaim and share their narrative. Keep the generations and their legacies alive.
Today (written July 4th 2024)
I officially said…,
So long to the only woman that bought me into this world.
Farewell to the only woman that could frustrate and make me smile at the same time.
O dabo ( Yoruba)to the only woman that could get people to do things when no one else could.
Adiós (Spanish)to the only woman that could unintentionally offend and intentionally compliment you in one sentence.
Sayonara (Japanese) to the only woman I know that could talk to every and anyone. Titles didn’t phase her in the slightest.
Au revoir (French) to the only woman I knew that needed to keep on the move. especially when witnessing to people about God.
Laters, to the only woman that would wear an eclectic mix of colours and patterns together in one outfit.
Goodbye to the only woman that could fall asleep just like that if she sat down and stopped moving.
See you later to the only woman I have known as mum.
The only woman that was consistently determined, (some may say stubborn) and joyful even at the very end.
This woman, my woman, my mother, my May Edna… who I love dearly. Left a legacy and story that lives on in me, my children, and our future.
As we navigate through our seasons of transition. May God be our comfort and guide.
Transitions by Emmanuel Waldron
What a beautiful and timeless piece Naomi. I love the way you wove in language into the memories of ypur precious mum. Sending you hugs and lots of ❤️