Today is my mother’s 80th birthday. 
She is in great health and is considered by many to be a ‘force of nature’. She still drives on four lane highways to babysit grandchildren and pets, climbs ladders to clean second story windows, sews curtains and upholsters furniture, knits socks and sweaters, cooks family feasts, is a Sudoku master and considered an angel by dying friends. She has always demonstrated unconditional love for me, my five sisters, their partners and ten grandchildren.
As I reflect with gratitude on all the gifts she has shared with me over the years I find myself wondering what I will be like as an octogenarian.
The following poem came to mind and while I would never wear gloves I do look forward to energetic eccentricity. Perhaps if I love enough I may follow in my mother’s footsteps.
Warning
When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn’t go, and doesn’t suit me.
And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves
And satin sandals, and say we’ve no money for butter.
I shall sit down on the pavement when I’m tired
And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells
And run my stick along the public railings
And make up for the sobriety of my youth.
I shall go out in my slippers in the rain
And pick the flowers in other peoples’ gardens
And learn to spit.
You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat
And eat three pounds of sausages at a go
Or only bread and pickles for a week
And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes.
But now we must have clothes that keep us dry
And pay our rent and not swear in the street
And set a good example for the children.
We must have friends to dinner and read the papers.
But maybe I ought to practice a little now?
So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised
When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.
by Jenny Joseph
Related articles
- Warning ~ I Shall Wear Purple (nrhatch.wordpress.com)
September 17, 2011
What a beautiful woman! Birthday wishes and all the best to your Mom!
My Mom just recently passed … cherish her Carole … time is precious.
Rosemary
September 17, 2011
Yup, she’s amazing, especially when you consider the significant challenges she’s had to endure throughout her life. Her positive attitude, resourcefulness and selflessness are incredible. She is the kindest person I know.
September 17, 2011
Your mother sounds AWESOME!
September 17, 2011
Happy Birthday Aunt Mary…..what a wonderful heartfelt and true account of a lovely lady
xxoo
September 17, 2011
Happy Birthday Mrs Koziol and many more. I remember you were always the best hostess and welcomed me with open arms. I feel privileged to have known you when Carol and I hung out. You reminded me of a warm fuzzy teddy bear. So friendly!!!!!!!!!
September 17, 2011
What a lovely tribute…have a great birthday Aunt Mary! Awesome and inspiring as always! All our love!
xxxxoooo
Karen, Gamal and Stefan!
September 19, 2011
Carol once again you inspire me – say Happy Birthday to your Mom for me. She is an awesome lady!!! You are who you are partially because of her – you are already like her in many ways. I miss you bunches..
September 19, 2011
What a gift…not only did she bring you into this world but continues to inspire and demonstrate what a full and rich life might looks like. Some of us are truly blessed.
Lynn
September 19, 2011
I met Mary about four years ago. She is inspirational and her kindness has added much to my life.
Go Mary Go.
Rick