The Person Always Behind You

It was a breezy, dewy morning, perfect for a stroll. I looked into her soft, twinkling blue eyes filled with happiness.

"Where are we headed, dear?" she asked in a tranquil tone as we stepped onto the lush, green lawn.

“Well, Mama, we’re going on a stroll today,” I said, patting her hand and tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. The sun shone brightly as we walked side by side.

I wrapped my arms around her as we strolled matching her pace. I caressed her back and slipped my hands onto her frail hands. I had been holding these hands since I was little. Every time I feared something, she would reach my hand and soothe me with her gentle touch.

"Do you remember, Mama, I got scared and I saw a little bug crawl on my hair? I screamed a lot and you removed it, holding me tightly until I calmed down.

"And that time, when I tripped over this log and was about to cry, you told me it's okay to fall and cry because it teaches you to be strong, and our wounds would heal in time. I didn't understand it but I remembered what you said." Pausing near on majestic oak tree, I held her hand and gazed at the sky.

"What is it, Mama? Are you tired? Do you want to go back?" I asked looking in the same direction she was at.

She simply smiled, her gaze wandering over the vast trees. I unfolded the blanket that I was carrying and placed it on her lap. It was the same one that we used on our countless strolls, the same one that had been our makeshift fort under starry skies.

"Mama, do you remember when you used to sing songs to me as we lay on the blanket until twilight? The sun gave way to hues of red and orange, the sky dimmed with night skies, and all the while you regaled me with stories about fairies and dungeons. I even imagined building a castle for you." chuckling gently. "Do you recall, Mama?" I breathed deeply and stared at her, but she simply smiled at me and looked over the horizon.

"I miss you, Mama. I miss your stories, your laughter, your warm embraces, and your encouraging words." My throat choked as my emotions poured in. The moment I started talking I couldn't seem to stop myself from telling her what I felt.

I miss your warm smiles. I know you can hear me; I know you're in there. Mama.. " I murmured through tears, hoping she would recognize me. But she just smiled at me gently, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon.

Sighing deeply, I collected our belongings and helped her stand up. "Let's head home, Mama, it's getting late." Suddenly, she stopped me in my tracks, looked at me, touched my cheek, and squinted her eyes.

"You look weary, Miss. Have you had any rest? You remind me of my daughter; she often appeared tired from playing all day in this forest. She loved this place as it was her kingdom."

Shocked by her words, tears streamed down my cheeks as her words sank in.

"You need to pause and listen so that you can find your way back."

I hugged her tightly and cried like a child. She enveloped me in a comforting hug, stroking my hair. Locking eyes with me, she pressed a tender kiss to my temple. I nodded, comprehension flooding over me. She might not remember me, but her heart does. Whispering her silent voice, she will always be here, even though her mind wanders far from me.

Planting a kiss on her cheek, I smiled through my tears. "Thank you, Mama, for always being here. I love you." She continued walking, and I reached for her hand.