Dear Gunilla,
I know that, technically, I have met you but, in your condition, I'm sure you don't remember me or even know why you met me in the first place. I wish that I could have met you when you were younger and had your full mind and body. I wish for this because you are the mother of the man I love and I've always wished I would have a mother-in-law to talk to, confide in, and care about.
I feel that I do know you in some ways. Ironically, I knew of your valuable work in the field of pedagogy long before I ever dreamt of even knowing your son! I became familiar with your books when I was studying early childhood education so imagine my surprise that first time Alex told me who you were! I still have your book on my shelf...next to the one you signed long ago for Alex. I've heard such great stories from Jan, a man who clearly sees you as the love of his life, about how you were when you were younger and I can hear in his voice and see in his eyes how much he still loves you though you cannot reciprocate. I know that there are stirrings of discontent within your family about past circumstances but I also know the power of true love and how sometimes choices are made in it's name that don't always make others happy. I know you're son loves you very much and that means a lot in my book!
I wish I could meet you back then, have a fika, and listen to the story of your life. You are important to me even though you may never know it. I look forward to seeing you again soon and wish that you would remember me but I know you will not. Still, I know the woman you were in your younger days is someone that I would have loved to know!
With love and admiration,
Mary
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