A New Star June 2009

My Jewish Play-Mom died after choosing not to undergo the chemo she first endured more than 10 years ago. We knew each other for years and laughed at people trying to figure how I, a brown skinned woman, could have a Jewish mother. I would remind her Jewish mothers and African American mothers are pretty much the same, so I knew the rules. I learned from Cece to live the life I want and to do what is most important to me. She once said she did not want to grow old saying, “I wish I had….” She and her husband, Andy traveled to Japan, a country Cece loved, for a year that stretched into 11. Ill health forced them to return. The damp chill of Seattle sent them to New Mexico. Cece smiled and laughed a lot. She taught me marriage requires a lot of work as both partners grow. She and Andy where married for more than 60 years. Andy is carrying Cece’s ashes to Japan where her life will be celebrated with their friends. Cece is now memories, none of which are troubling. Cece is now a star dancing in the night sky; there for me to gaze upon, think my thoughts, and ask questions. Cece will answer with wise words of advice, support, and praise. And I will smile and say, “Yes, Mom.”