Finding The Silver Lining

After Mama was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, she immediately underwent surgery in hopes of removing the tumor. My caring sister-in-law captured this touching photo of my parents holding hands as Daddy reassured her that he was right there and everything was going to be alright. Daddy was the rock of our family, always providing love, stability, and strength.

My family and I decided it was time for my parents to move to an independent living community. I can’t imagine how many significant life changes my amazing Mama faced, yet she never once complained. She selflessly gave her cherished piano that Daddy surprised her with in their early years of marriage to my twin brother and his wife, She even had to rehome her beloved cat, Boots. Leaving behind their home meant saying goodbye to familiar comforts: a walking path along with a dog park that Daddy visited daily and Mama’s special prayer bench, where she spoke to God in the cool morning air.

We all pitched in to help them transition, purchasing smaller furniture and incorporating sentimental items into their new space. We made sure to include their meaningful paintings, family photos, and, of course, Daddy’s favorite recliner in their cozy apartment den.

I’m so grateful for my love of photography and videography since getting married in 1998. When my husband Andy, my son Jackson, and I took Paw-Paw to see their new home, I recorded his reaction. I captured nearly five minutes of his heartfelt gratitude as he marveled at their new place.

He was thrilled with the big new TV and console, which sat perfectly in front of his recliner. Over and over, he exclaimed, “This is uptown!”

Then Daddy sat down, picked up the phone, and called Mama in his deep, joyful voice. “Now hun, you’ve got to feel better and come home,” he said. He described their new space with such excitement: “Someone bought you a little white couch, it’s freshly painted, carpets are cleaned, and they’ve got our table ready for the both of us in our little kitchen.” He ended the call by saying, “Doris, it’s the Taj Mahal.”

I have countless memories of Daddy finding the silver lining, even in challenging times. He always looked for something positive to share with Mama while she was in the hospital and living at their “Taj Mahal” , by showing compassion, gratitude, and hope.

Mama lived there for a year. During that time, they embraced every activity and befriended everyone they met. They truly were Mr. and Mrs. Congeniality, spreading cheer and laughter wherever they went. I have no doubt they brought joy to many during their time there.