A Prayer Please

Growing up was not always a happy time for me. My parents were good people, but really had no idea how to raise kids. My mom has suffered from severe depression ever since I was born. In fact, during the first year of my life, she attempted suicide. I never felt bonded with her, and any closeness we have is simply because we happen to share genes.
Dad was one of those removed types. He went to work, came home, ate dinner and went to bed. Or he would go out. There are very few times I can recall actually spending quality time alone with him, or my mom.

But, I was lucky. Besides having the worlds best sister, Mel, (who I have written about) I also had my Aunt Betty and Uncle George. Also known as Aunt George and Uncle Betty! (inside family joke) They came down to our home on Cape Cod several times a year and for 2 weeks every summer. They were the fun in my life. (They are my cousin Janet‘s parents)
Uncle Betty was never too busy to listen to me, or joke with me, or spend just a little time with me when I was growing up. She has a wicked quick wit and sharp tongue, and although I am not biologically related to her, I always tend to think of myself as being like her just a little.
Aunt George taught me to swim, to dive, to bowl, took us hiking and he really liked kids. Unlike my parents who always seemed to be surviving having them. Aunt George is quick with a smile and the gentlest, kindest person I know.
These two adults showed me that grown ups could be kind to kids.

Uncle Betty is pretty sick right now. She’s been in failing health for a while, but it’s gotten a lot worse lately, and she is back in the hospital. I didn’t sleep much last night, because I’m worried about her. I’m also worried about me, about my cousins, Aunt George and my sister. We all love her so much and I can’t imagine not having her in our lives anymore.
So please say a little prayer for her today.