Summary: Mother’s Day is hard when you’re missing your mama.
Rating: G, Word Count: 643

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Mother’s Day

Adam sat on the bank of the Mississippi River, quietly watching the hustle and bustle of the people around him. Earlier that day, he and Pa had stopped here in the town of Little Falls to get the supplies they needed for their journey West. It was Saturday, and everyone was busy preparing for the picnic scheduled for tomorrow, in celebration of Mother’s Day. As Adam watched all the children playing and having fun with their parents, he was overwhelmed with sadness. He quickly ran to the wagon and pulled out a pen and a piece of paper. He sat down on the bank and started writing:

Dear Mama,

Pa and I are on the way out West to pursue Pa’s dream. Pa acts like he is mad with me all the time, and he never has any time to spend with me. He is always busy. Mama, why doesn’t Pa love me? Is it because it is my fault that you died when I was born? Oh Mama, I wish you were here, just so I could see what you look like. Every time I try to talk to Pa he just cuts me off. Mama, please come back, I need you!

Love,
Adam

Ben was putting the supplies in the wagon when he spotted Adam sitting on the bank of the river, with his head down. He was clenching a piece of paper. Ben quickly put the supplies away and walked towards him. As he got closer he could see tears running down Adam’s face.

“Son, what is wrong?” Ben asked as he sat down beside him.

“Nothing, Pa.” said Adam.

Ben put his hand on Adam’s shoulder and spoke gently. “Adam, I know that something is bothering you and I want to help. Please talk to me. I see that you have a piece of paper in your hand. What has you so upset?”

Adam sighed quietly and handed Ben the paper. After a few minutes Ben looked at Adam, with tears running down his face. He quickly grabbed him into his arms.

“Oh my boy, my precious boy,” Ben cried. “Please forgive me!”

Ben held Adam in his arms. They huddled together, for a long time. Ben looked at him and gently wiped the tears from his face.

“Wait here Son, I will be right back.” Ben made his way back to the wagon. He reached into the wooden chest that had once been Elizabeth’s and pulled out two treasures. He secured the lock and hurried back to where Adam was waiting.

“Adam, your Mama and I loved you very much. Yes, it hurt when she passed away. None of this was your fault and I know that she would not want you to blame yourself. I promise to be there for you, in the future. Anytime you want to talk about her, or ask questions, you can come to me.”

Ben then handed Adam a music box and said, “This was your Mama’s, Son. Whenever you are sad, just open it up and listen to the beautiful music.” He then slipped a small picture into Adam’s hand. “This, Adam, is a picture of your Mama that was made after we got married. You have so much of her in you, with your smile, and the way your eyes twinkle when you laugh. I want you to keep these, so that you can have a part of her with you, always.”

Adam looked at Ben in amazement, then threw himself into his arms. Ben just held him and rocked him.

After a few minutes, they felt a breeze blow across their faces. Adam and Ben looked at one other and smiled. Off in the distance, Elizabeth stood and watched her husband and her precious son. She then turned and walked back into the light. All was well.

 

From the Brandsters.  This story was originally written and published on the Bonanza Trail Riders site.  Brand is happy to offer this story a new home.