Mom, though it has been many years since these events have occurred, I think of them often and wonder why you did what you did. 

What events?

Well, when I was in eight grade and on the CYO Basketball team, I was one of their star players. We had a great season, and we were on our way to the championship. The championship game was set for Saturday, and we were all thrilled. When I told you about the game, you told me that I could not go because we were expected at Pop-Pop and Nanny’s home for dinner in Philadelphia. I was furious because this was the championship game! You still said no. My coach even called you and offered to have me stay with him. You still said no. I couldn’t believe it, and I am still mad for missing that championship game after 40 years!

I don’t remember anything about a championship game. I only remember how happy Pop-Pop and Nanny were to see you, and how much fun you had with your cousins.

There was that time I was talking on the phone with Joanne. You took the phone away from me and told Joanne I was too young to date. I was so embarrassed. The next day in school, she wouldn’t even talk with me. After that school year, I never saw her again.

I don’t remember anything about Joanne. I only know what a fine and great man you turned out to be. 

There was that time in college when I was going to sign up for Army Officer School. I knew it was hard on you and Dad having four children in college at one time. The Army offered to pay for the rest of my education at Boston College, and I would graduate as an Officer in the U.S. Army. You told me in no uncertain terms that I was not to sign up for the Army Officer School, and that Dad and you had the tuition covered.  

I don’t remember anything about the Army Officer School. I only remember you graduated from Boston College as Magna Cum Laude and you went on to get a fellowship at the University of Hartford, and later you got a Presidential Appointment to work at NASA. None of that would have happened if you signed up for the Army.

There was that time I forgot your birthday, and Dad called me to “remind” me. I felt so guilty. I sent you flowers, and a card.

I do remember that! You should never forget your Mother’s birthday. The person who bore you, nourished you, prayed for you, cried for you and loved you more with each passing day.  Please remember that when I am no longer with you.

I love you, Mom.

I love you too, Robert. 

POSTSCRIPT:  Elizabeth Hebeler passed away on January 18, 2020 at 11:43 a.m.  She was at peace surrounded by her children, sister, niece and nephew. She is now in God’s heavenly embrace with my Father, her Parents, her brother, Bill and her sister, Blanc.