Remember the little bookies I made for no apparent reason, then gave one to my 2nd cousin with stickers stitched in it? I made a sizable stack and waited for the right time to use them until Mother’s day revealed their purpose.

My mother is one of twelve siblings, only ten of whom are still with us. I am fortunate (and willing) enough to have a unique relationship with each of my aunts and uncles, gaining some of the most diverse, entertaining, and  profound wisdom I could ever wish for. I love them all dearly. It is no secret that I crave their knowledge of my grandmother. Some have generously shared stories with me. Some remain protective of their precious, limited memories, and I respect them for that.

It is difficult to imagine the void that is highlighted every year on Mother’s day for those who no longer have their mother to hug. Thinking about all that my mother, aunts and uncles have been through is humbling. Every year I wish I could tell them how proud their mother must be of them – how she sees their individual gifts and still knows their heart. 

This year I practiced my haiku skills on their behalf with the intention of highlighting some of my favorite qualities of each of Lionelha’s children. The only person I don’t have direct knowledge of is my uncle Joseph who drown with my grandmother. I relied on his siblings’ shared opinion of him.

In honor of all of my aunts and uncles, and of course my own mother, who have enriched my life – thank you. My gratitude grows by the day. I love you.