Not Afraid Of The Dark

March 31st, 2009; 1:29 AM

Current mood:surprised

Something monumental just happened. My mom has had a night-light ever since she got really sick. She's reverted in a way, to a very sweet and innocent child-like state. She needs the light to give her comfort at night. It makes her feel safe. The only times she hasn't had the light were on nights when I would sleep with her...and then I would turn out the light (because I can't sleep with the light on) and I would have to reassure her that she was going to be OK...and that I was right here....and remember how before she used to sleep without the light on...and nothing happened? And it was safe and comforting no matter what? Light on or off? And then she'd agree and hold my hand and then eventually drift off to sleep. Well tonight, I was tucking her in one last time, and before I went she said "Honey, you can turn that light off. Will ya?" It wasn't just *what* she said...it was *how* she said it. *The voice that she used when she said it.* It was just like before. She used her adult voice. Her Mom voice. It was a glimmering moment of how she used to be. Not to mention something totally unusual and wonderful. She *wanted* the light off. It was like she had forgotten alltogether that she was afraid of the dark! I can't tell you how wonderful that is for me. I love my mom so much. This is just a really great feeling. So she's asleep. In the dark. Content, and safe, and happy. And soon I will be too. :)