The night before I married my first husband, fifty years ago in Dublin, I told my parents that if they drank at the wedding reception, I would never speak to them again.
A tender and compassionate portrayal of your mother - in hindsight. "Heart-scalding" is a perfect way to describe your regret. But we all see through different lenses at different times of life. I hope you can bring that compassion back to your young and nervous self too.
Brilliant writing, Paula....worthy of comparison to the best offerings of Frank McCourt. Alcoholism touches someone in almost every family. Mine was no exception growing up.
Thank you for this. My mother was also a heavy drinker for many years who found her way to sobriety, but never left the swamp of anger and depression that society and her family led her into.
A very touching story. Thx.
A wonderful essay. Thank you. So many regrets for understanding our mothers when it’s too late to say so. And so many regrets for being a brat.
A tender and compassionate portrayal of your mother - in hindsight. "Heart-scalding" is a perfect way to describe your regret. But we all see through different lenses at different times of life. I hope you can bring that compassion back to your young and nervous self too.
I want to continue reading. It reminds me a little of “Mad men”. And of me, of course. And my mom.
Such a wisely insightful, exquisitely written piece.
I really appreciate your observant eye and your deep concern.
What a gem of an essay! Thank you for sharing.
sudden insight and regret. very painful until you realize are grateful for it.
terrific piece, thank you.
Thank you, Abigail. My book club here in Quebec just finished reading your "Still Life at 80". Thumbs up all around.
Oh my goodness, thank you, I love knowing that. Please thank them for me. And again, thank you for your wonderful writing.
Thanks for your honesty and perspective, and mainly your kindness.
Very moving and loving. Thank you for sharing this Paula.
Wow, what a gorgeous, heart-opening piece. I’m so glad Rona pointed me here.
So beautiful. So bittersweet.
This was a stunningly beautiful piece. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Brilliant writing, Paula....worthy of comparison to the best offerings of Frank McCourt. Alcoholism touches someone in almost every family. Mine was no exception growing up.
Thank you for this. My mother was also a heavy drinker for many years who found her way to sobriety, but never left the swamp of anger and depression that society and her family led her into.
Very moving, Paula. We all regret things we've said, I'm sure, but not many go deeper into profound understanding and a kind of forgiveness.