I went to breakfast with friends and spent some time with them afterward. It was fun as we busted each other's chops for all kinds of social shortcomings. I believe we solved all the problems of the world from Obamacare to the the loftiness of the Spot Coffee on Main St. in Williamsville. No topic is safe with this band of miscreants and malcontents. I felt particularly uplifted by the banter. I left and did some shopping and went home feeling impervious to the ills of the world. I opened the door and was stopped in my tracks dropping the milk and shrieking to Ma to close the bathroom door.
I didn't know Ma made like Lady Godiva when I wasn't expected. I viewed first hand where all the TP was being used. I was deeply shaken, NO MAN SHOULD EVER HAVE TO VIEW HIS MOTHER'S UNCLAD BIRTHDAY SUIT! When my Father was expiring and getting weak, he fell into the tub and I had to pick him up, pull up his pants and put away his ducket. The family jewels were something I had never intended to view, let alone put away for him. There was a certain pride that we were men who did not have to whistle and look away at a public urinal, but I could have happily lived a lifetime without that experience. Now Ma parading around in the altogether is way, way over the line. I have always had a fear that Ma would expire in the tub and I would have to drain the water and cover her up. I have come to know that I was right, it is a really disconcerting experience to see, even briefly, Ma in the altogether. I hope she doesn't want to talk about it as I am sure she is as embarrassed as I am. This has got to be some kind of cosmic joke. My greatest fear realized just when I thought I was on top of my game.
I have been pretty content lately, feeling that I had ..... Hold that thought, I have to go turn the TV down to a level that will allow me to think. ... turned a corner with my acceptance of Ma's eccentricities. I am glad that life offers continual educational opportunities to expand my horizons and be humbled by my experiences.
I would have never chosen the path I am on. I have always envisioned this portion of my life as a full time Mardi Gras. A time to be enjoyed with little or no responsibility. This is more difficult and frustrating than raising a brood of kids. I can only imagine that my parents were and are as frustrated by the loss of their independence and dignity as I am. My mom wished me a Happy Birthday today, 12 days late, and was genuinely hurt that she didn't remember me on that day. She is way to busy preparing for her next life experience to have to worry about such things.
