More Than

It’s called The Shakespeare Birthday Book, and was given to me ever so long ago by a friend who had traveled abroad.

Many years later I tried to buy another copy for a gift when I was in London, but soon discovered it was out of print.

The small red cardboard book quickly became my depository of family records, births, anniversaries, weddings and sadly, several goodbyes. Some anticipated, others unexpected, but all a loss beyond words.

Ironically, all the preprinted quotes from the Bard appear constantly appropriate for the information I scrupulously add.

Since the day I received it, month by month I resurrect it temporarily from its resting place in the bottom drawer of my blue Ethan Allen desk.

Sometimes it reminds me to order another Papyrus card from Amazon or occasionally, causes my eyes to fill with unshed tears.

Often I have rejoiced when a new member, bride, groom or cherub enlarged our rather small clan. The latest additions in black ink are for great grandchildren. I smile with pleasure as I record their names realizing our time together must be limited.

This month of May, 2021 was different. When I opened it remembered someone who has left my world, not by chance, but choice.

As the book has aged, so have I, and I question many things.

I wonder if I have said enough thank you’s to the good souls who have passed through my world. I wonder if I have acknowledged with gratitude that others have made some of my dreams come true.

One persistent dream I had was that each of our Fabulous Four would find happiness with another. I have always believed that it is love that enhances life, and eases the complicated path our Maker has given each of us.

Today when I saw the name and the date, May 28, I realized it was an appropriate time to give thanks to the woman who made my child happy. I recalled the words to a song sung at their wedding, “Let me die in her arms.”

Happy birthday, Kerrie, and thank you from a grateful Mother.