A Poignant Gathering

It was two days before my mother passed away when she summoned me and my college friends into her bedroom for what would become one of the most poignant moments of our lives. 'Girls, get in here so I can get my hands on you,' she said, struggling with an oxygen tube that never seemed to fit correctly on her face. Even in her frail state, Mom’s spirit shone through as she jokingly complained about her situation, asking the nurse if she could 'take the damn thing out.'

Sisters at Heart

My friends—Nancy, Brooks, and Tippett—were my sisters at heart. Although we were all in our 40s, we could still channel the carefree days we spent as college students at DePauw University, where our biggest concern was which dive bar to visit on any given Thursday night. Life had moved forward for us; we shared degrees, marriages, and careers, while I remained single and without children.

Facing Reality

Mom's illness had been a known truth to us all. After making the heartbreaking decision to stop treatment the month prior, I felt the weight of what was to come. That winter, I had left my tech job in San Francisco to return home to Ohio, something my mother deeply appreciated, revealing just how sick she truly was.

A Moment of Connection

As the morning sun filtered in, casting light over the familiar sights of the farm where I grew up, I settled into the window seat, close to my mother’s side. My friends, without hesitation, climbed onto the bed to be near her. 'Oh, my favorites came to see me,' she whispered weakly, her voice no longer the booming presence it once was.

Bringing History and Love

Each friend brought their own history and stories intertwined with my mother. For example, Brooks, who sported her Southern charm, kissed Mom on the cheek while saying, 'Hi honey.' It struck me how every interaction held weight; they were moments stitched with love, respect, and humor.

Mom’s Gift of Connection

Mom had an innate ability to connect with people, often turning simple conversations into profound exchanges. I recalled the time Tipps had shared the pain of losing her father, and how my mother genuinely listened, creating a space for her to express her memories and grief.

A Shift in Energy

As we laughed and reminisced, my heart felt heavy yet joyful, seeing how much joy my mother’s friends brought into her life. 'You’re so beautiful, all of you,' she said, her voice softening. It was a moment that underscored her vulnerability and fierce love.

The Profound Word

But then, something began to shift. Mom reached for my hand with a distinct urgency. As I intertwined my fingers with hers, something profound began to unfold. Her other hand gently brushed my nose, a gesture of connection that had never occurred before. It felt significant—her eyes locked onto mine with intention. Then, with utmost clarity, she whispered a single word: 'Lucky.'

An Affirmation of Love

The weight of that word took my breath away. I repeated it back to her, feeling as if we were sealing a pact—that despite everything, we were fortunate to have experienced such deep and real love. In those fleeting seconds, the atmosphere in the room transformed. Instead of despair, the word 'lucky' became a lifeline—an affirmation of our bond and the gratitude we shared.

Reflections on Grief and Gratitude

Today, as I reflect six years later, I see that single moment with my mother and friends as a turning point in my life. The loss of my mother marked the beginning of a new journey—one where grief and gratitude walked hand in hand. I soon found myself leading a group of friends now bound together by shared heartache.

The Club Nobody Wants to Belong To

We call ourselves 'The Club Nobody Wants to Belong To.' I became the unofficial president, having suffered loss earlier than my peers. But it’s this shared experience, this collective understanding, that deepens our friendships. We stand together in moments of joy and sorrow, understanding more profoundly the meaning of luck and love that exists between us.

Continuing the Legacy

In the end, my mother’s last word wasn’t just a reflection of our relationship; it carried the weight of hope and resilience that continues to guide me. We are lucky, indeed—for the love shared among friends and the memories that keep their spirit alive.