I am so regretful that I will not be able to attend Mommom's funeral tomorrow as I am still recuperating from back surgery, but I am so grateful that there is a space here to be able to share a few brief thoughts.

I met Mommom on July 28, 2001, exactly seven and a half years ago today. She welcomed me into the family with open arms. Her wide smile and the twinkle in her eyes enveloped me with warmth and love from the tips of my toes to the hairs on my head. Her hug was tender and just the right size. I immediately felt as if I'd been given the gift of another bubbe in my life.

One year later, Mommom was present at our wedding when David and I got married. Both of my grandmothers were no longer living, and although neither could ever be replaced, it was so comforting to have a 'Nana' present. Mommom clapped and danced and brought tears to our eyes when she did us the honor of saying the Motzi.

Over the years, never have I seen a woman glow so much as did Mommom when she spoke of her daughters, her grandchildren, and especially, all her great grandchildren-- all the future lawyers, doctors, and businessmen of America. Clearly family meant so much to Mommom. Conversations with Mommom were short and sweet and often about the same things. But in them I learned that Mommom valued honesty, kindness, intelligence, beauty, and humor. And when I reflect on these conversations I wish I could look at Mommom one more time and simply say, "Thank you." Thank you Mommom for being an example of perseverance, fortitude, strength and joy.

For each of us who are so saddened at this time, may we each be embraced by the tenderness of G-d's grace. May the days ahead be filled with comfort and ease. And, Mommom, may your soul find eternal peace and may you always know that you will remain forever in our hearts. We love you dearly.

A PSALM FOR OUR MOM-MOM

The day is dark, but the memories bright.
The Mother of our Mothers is released into Eternity.
Our guiding light, our proponent of everything right.
Her ideals were strong, reflecting her desire...
To aim us toward success; to insist we never fail;
To pursue the dream of fulfillment…hers AND ours!
She has kept up her end of the bargain
By living and supporting us as long as possible.
She provided us encouragement throughout her many years.
Our tears still flow and the pain of loss lingers in our hearts.
But the memories are sweet and plentiful.
Some are shared by the common experiences that defined her,
Like the Yiddish expressions that were Mom-mom’s trademark.
Others included our individual experiences…
Conversations that we had with her in a private moment.
These were all intended for the same purpose…
Our collective well-being.
We still have her spirit to guide us.
Her legacy burns as an eternal flame forever in our hearts.
Those cherished words and phrases echoing within our being.
Her expressions were as meaningful and classical
As the Jewish culture from which they originated.
Mom-mom was an unassuming spokeswoman for her generation.
She represented everything that was good about a Jewish grandmother.
Most of all, she maintained fervent love of her children,
Her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren.
And for this we will always be grateful.
Mom-mom we will miss you.