Saturday, January 30, 2010

Thirty Years Ago


I just figured out that thirty years ago my mother was on her mission with my father in Sri Lanka. She was my age. How could that possibly be? She seemed so old. My father was 77 when they returned so maybe that is why she seemed older than she really was. It was a hard mission for her. She was excited to come home. But she had no idea what was a head of her. My father had his massive stroke the first night they were home. The first night her world turned upside down. There was no time to enjoy being with family, enjoying Mexican food, going to the temple, driving up the canyon, eating black nibs (she liked black licorice, too)--all of that was backseat to
trying to absorb what her life would be like now.

They sacrificed their last normal months to the people of Sri Lanka. I really didn't get it until just now, now that our bishop emailed us asking us
when we wanted to report in our ward.

Can I just say I am thankful for the sacrifice of my parents? I just am.
And she was my age.


9 comments:

Ann said...

I didn't know it happened their first night home from their mission. I too, am thankful for their sacrifices. Thanks for sharing, mom. Love you.

Jordan said...

I didn't know that either. Wow. You seem so young still though. When WILL you report?

Unknown said...

April 25th, 11:00am. Oak Hills 6th Ward.

No Big Dill said...

And she did everything with grace, like it was no big deal. I'm sure she cried in her closets, but she did what so many fail to do. She endured to the end. I look forward to the reunion with her in Heaven.

Lanae said...

That was beautiful, Becky. We sure miss you and I'm jumping up and down in my chair I'm so excited that we get to see you in a few months! We love and miss you both and the entire Knudsen clan. It's just not the same without you here.

Charlotte said...

Beautiful, beautiful Becky. I have the profoundest love and respect for your parents--and for you. Thanks for sharing. Love,

olivia said...

love the photo... love the history... love the love...

Rebecca said...

I am so excited to know that you will report back here! I will be there to see you before you leave us for your new home. I will be so sad to see you leave us here in Provo, but will be thrilled to hear your report and hope to perhaps come visit you and your wonderful children some day on the East Coast!

Carol said...

I loved this post. I was only around your mom a few times, but she radiated such kindness, you couldn't help but feel comfortable around her. Hmmm...sounds just like you.