Mother Said No

Daddy died at 58 and left a widow of 35 with 11 minor kids. Daddy's people offered to take some of us and raise us themselves. Mom appreciated their loving offer but declined in spite of her task. There were 7 girls and 4 boys between the ages of 9 months and 16. Mom did okay, with all finishing high school, and two went to college. Accepting such a gesture would have surely changed us for life. Only Heaven knows what our bonding and connections would have been. I have often thought about mom's decision, and I am proud of her. Sometimes it takes years to remember these kinds of things; and unfortunately, mom passed away before I was able to thank her. In spite of well-meaning relatives who sincerely desired to help, mother knew what was best for us. I will always believe that I and my 10 siblings are 'the better' for it that Mama said "No". 81922PSCtest, A BRIAN STRAND PREMIERE CHOICE. Brian Strand.