The Library Card
One of my beautiful Mom's favourite childhood memories is being at the library as a toddler. She remembers going to the children's section and, noticing books strewn all over the floor, picking them up, one by one, and placing them on the table. Standing at the check out later with her dad, the librarian reached across the counter and placed a penny in her hand to say thank you for caring for the books. She never forgot the joy of that moment.
Mom became a librarian later in life and was never without a book. Books lining the shelves in her apartment to overflowing, side table, kitchen table, beside her chair in the living room. Magazines became a favourite as her memory became a challenge–––shorter articles could be read in one sitting. Thicker books were poured over daily for a month giving information time to sink in. Mom never ceased to find joy in sharing, "Listen to this!" she'd offer.... History of all kinds was her passion.
At 5:10 am January 1st I received the following notice on behalf of my dear ol' Mom.
"Your library card is due to expire 30 days from today. Please drop by your local branch with documentation indicating your current address to renew your card."
To which I exclaimed, "Seriously???? You are going to cancel her LIBRARY CARD??????"
I mused that my mom was now the perfect library member. She will never return a book late, never, have an unpaid fine, never spill tea on or hog material other people are waiting to read. She will never NEVER (heaven forbid––) ‘dog ear’ a page! (Gasp)
I'm not sure how to handle this one. I don't have a recent letter with her current location.
Do you think Heaven is a valid address? We may be out of luck….
Still, I am reaching for comfort with the idea that if there is a library in heaven my mom will be in the midst of it stalking shelves and whispering ideas to those new to the magic of the written word. She may even move right in. Haha. A cup of tea, a sandwich and a stack of good books to be read. This IS heaven for some. ☺
Love you Mom.
Thanks for offering a place to share this.
<3
Cynthia ~
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