Part of a team

I stopped by the house the other day and Mom and Ron were out mending the side steps. The atmosphere was relaxed as they measured, prepared screws, and fit things in place. They talked to each other about what they were doing and used gentle voices. This is not something Mom takes for granted, having been in circumstances that were not always this way. My dad was a little random during projects - sometimes he was patient and efficient, and sometimes he became cranky and gruff quickly. And then for so many years, Mom had to do things on her own. She is an incredibly independent woman who spends much of her time taking care of others.

And then Ron came along and changed everything. Mom still takes care of everyone else, but she has a partner who helps take care of her. They have made a life together that allows for their independence and for their teamwork. I have never seen Mom happier. Ron is amazing - to all of us. And to tell the truth, seeing this couple working on a project together so peaceably is something that I will never take for granted either. Mom deserves someone who is kind and gentle and respectful and who views projects as opportunities to partner...