And I call her Mom ... she was born in 1933 in Korea to Mang, So Chun and her Mom, who's name I've never known. Her name is Mang, Jung hi and Cindy is what she's called ... the name given to her by my Dad.
This is how I hear her say my name and then her saying it in the video.
The spelling is likely wrong because I don't know of that name, my name is Carolyn. It's difficult for her to pronounce. I think 'r's' might be a challenge for Koreans. I know ... it doesn't make sense ... but it's one of those unique things in our relationship. And I like it.
Many things are difficult for someone born in Korea in the years leading up to World War II. When she left Korea she bowed to her father. No touching, no 'I love you's' ... just a bow. This is very different than the life we now live with hugs and kisses for all!
There was a time several years ago when Mom and I were doing really well in our relationship. Better than we'd ever done. I had gone to see her and we had a really great time together. When I got home I called her every other day. One day she said to me 'It's like we're best friends!' Just thinking of those words, my eyes still fill with tears. What a treasured memory.
She is a special lady with a very difficult past. If you'd like to read more about her, you can click here.
Mom is sick right now ... she has been for several months. We don't know what the future holds for her ... I suppose just like our own lives, except that she is sick.
In February I was able to fly to Texas and see her for a week. It was a different visit. She spent most of her time in her chair in and out of sleep.
I was just thankful for the opportunity to see her and to sit with her in her home.
Since I've been back home, I've missed her so much. I tried to go see her again, but then the Corona Virus began to change life.
I decided to attempt painting a picture of her. She is a beautiful lady. I treasure her and all the times I've had with her. I love her.
irenett says
So precious . . . Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. Always praying . . .
sixteenmilesout says
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my post and for your kind words. 😊
Martha says
What a beautiful post, Carolyn. I’ll be praying for your mom, and you as well.
sixteenmilesout says
Thank you so much Martha! ♥️
Pamela says
Lovely story. Prayers for your mom.
sixteenmilesout says
Thank you Pamela!
Sherri says
I’m so sorry for the physical suffering your mother is going through. Sending heartfelt prayers for healing. Mothers are very special. Your painting of her is beautiful. I pray that you will be able to see her again soon.
sixteenmilesout says
Thank you so much Sherri!
Doodlebug Designz says
Simply beautiful. Moms are so very important in our lives. Thank you for sharing that part of you.
sixteenmilesout says
Thank you Debra. Yes they are.
Tina says
Awww Carolyn, I just signed up for a couple of your classes and just now reading your blog and I feel like I’ve already connected with you. Like so many others, my mom met my dad when he was stationed in Germany (Army), she was born in Berlin. She was only 18 when they married and she came to the states. I think she is so special in that way, so unique and interesting just as your mom is. And my mom doesn’t say Tina correctly either, it’s more like teeee-nah and I love it. My mom is 88 and I treasure all the time I have with her. My father died at the age of 50. Thank you for sharing your story of your beloved mom. Your painting of her is beautiful. I will be praying for your mom and for you during this tender and precious time.
sixteenmilesout says
Oh thank you so much Tina! I’m so glad your taking courses from me. This is so special! I love your story as well! I’m looking forward to getting to know you more.