Tough to read, but artfully written. Thank you for sharing such a personal story. As a child, my father endured a similar family situation that has long haunted us despite great efforts to conceal the events. But you can't hide the old newspapers forever. Suffice to say, my 10 year old father witnessed the horrific beating death of his mother at the hands of my mentally unbalanced grandfather. While abortion did not play a part, the failure of society to provide proper treatment for a mentally ill young man is common to both stories. My father and his sister overcame the horrors of these events to lead happy, successful lives.
Thanks, Mauri. She was universally described as an “amazing woman,” but she did carry a heavy sadness with her all the days of her life. And all of her children became solid, successful citizens, (except for the one journalist) and it was solely because of her unfailing determination that we got chances she didn’t have.
Tough to read, but artfully written. Thank you for sharing such a personal story. As a child, my father endured a similar family situation that has long haunted us despite great efforts to conceal the events. But you can't hide the old newspapers forever. Suffice to say, my 10 year old father witnessed the horrific beating death of his mother at the hands of my mentally unbalanced grandfather. While abortion did not play a part, the failure of society to provide proper treatment for a mentally ill young man is common to both stories. My father and his sister overcame the horrors of these events to lead happy, successful lives.
I failed to add that your mother was a remarkable woman.
She was, by unanimous consent, quite the woman. Thanks for the kind thoughts.
Incredibly personal and compelling piece, Jim. I appreciate your sharing it with us.
Thanks, Patrick
Oh Jim. No words. Thanks for sharing that story in honor of your mother.
Thank you for reading it, Bridget.
Amazing strength in your mother is clearly reflected in her son. Yes, she would approve. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks, Mauri. She was universally described as an “amazing woman,” but she did carry a heavy sadness with her all the days of her life. And all of her children became solid, successful citizens, (except for the one journalist) and it was solely because of her unfailing determination that we got chances she didn’t have.