Dr. Cheri Halderman-Mills October 16, 1944, to February 4, 2022.
Some measure their wealth with money or the property they have. Others by counting those they call ‘family’ or ‘friends.’ My mother did neither.
From across two marriages, there are family members here whose lives are better because she was there to lend an ear, provide words of comfort and wisdom, and to give aid when needed.
I see friends and members of her community that told me of her good works and the inspiration she gave them. I see those who lived in confusion and frustration that have become beacons of light. I see the damaged who’ve been made whole by her ministrations.
I see mother’s measure of wealth.
Do not let the darkness that took her cause you despair. For that darkness cannot extinguish her light. It lives in each of you.
As for myself, I can assure you she lives. Even in these dark times, and in future times when the darkness is greater, I have only to wonder what she would say or do, and she is here.
At this moment, her presence is known to me.
Even while I grieve the loss of her physical presence and the loss felt by those she and I love; I know she remains. She is a part of me. She is a part of you. And if you would but remember her, she is there to provide you comfort and aid.
I am better for having her in my life. You are better for allowing her to be part of your life.
I see mother’s measure of wealth.
I am her measure of wealth.
You are her measure of wealth.
We are her measure of wealth.
In her last days, she lived alone, having survived two good husbands. And I assure you, and my family can attest, I offered many times to take her in so I could care for her and in some way return the love she poured into my life. But she was strong and independent. She did not want to be a burden to anyone. She also cherished the community she had become part of and wished to remain. And so, she has.
I say finally, Mother you have done well. I thank you for all that you have done. Peace be unto you until that glorious day when we can be together again.