WWMD

Navigating life without Mom sucks; I miss her every day and I think some element of sadness and anger will live within me for a long, long time (forever).

Thankfully though, I've done a lot of grief work in the past year and a half. Through this process, I've come to realize that my feelings of sadness and anger can coexist alongside feelings of gratitude. I'm angry my mom died, AND I am grateful for the time I had with her - for her unconditional love, kindness, and for all the memories we shared together.

My relationship with my mom was very close, which provided me with a deep understanding of her. This understanding has led me to create what I affectionately refer to as "WWMD" - "What Would Mom Do?" Whenever I'm faced with a difficult decision, I tap into this mental space and can almost hear my mom's calm and reassuring voice guiding me. My mom always helped me weigh the pros and cons of a difficult decision, and patiently listened as I processed my thoughts out loud. During moments of overwhelm and stress, Mom would gently encourage me, remind me to take things one step at a time, and to break down daunting tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. Mom also always assured me that I have the strength to overcome any challenge. I appreciate my ability to tap into WWMD to know what she would do, what she would say, or how she would guide me.

My grief counsellor has encouraged me to delve deeper into the concept of WWMD, expanding its meaning to "Who Was Mom and how Do I see her in myself?" Reflecting on this, I realize how profoundly I've been shaped and influenced by my mom's characteristics and strengths. I carry within me her calm and compassionate presence, her ability to problem solve, her kind and gentle nature, and her resilience. I am so incredibly grateful to have been nurtured by the most extraordinary Mom in the world.

In honour of this guiding principle, I've had WWMD engraved onto a leather bracelet that I wear every day. It serves as a tangible reminder of my mom's everlasting influence in my life, and the invaluable lessons she continues to impart. Through WWMD, I find strength, comfort, and a sense of connection to the most amazing Mom who will live on forever in my heart.

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