Relationships worth more than material things

I received a wonderful early Christmas present from my mother this year. Her present takes the form of a Christmas letter which is very inspirational. With her permission, I'm sharing her present with all of you, the readers of this column.

"To all my Dear Friends and Loved Ones,

I am sending news of my move as a Thanksgiving letter, Christmas card, New Year's wishes, love for Valentine's and your birthday, whenever it is.

As I do not write as well as I would like to, this will help me with my news, greetings, and love to all of you.

After several falls during the past winter and inability to take care of my needs, foodwise, therapy and living in general, I decided to make a change in my lifestyle without fear of falling, no cooking to do, and all the loving care I receive in this beautiful assisted living facility. It is not a nursing home or an independent living apartment, but just between the two. I am truly blessed to be here, among long time friends, former neighbors and a somewhat sacred atmosphere, with all the conveniences one could ask for.

My children are delighted that I am here in a small apartment - no cooking - no cleaning, but just a perfect place for my 85 year old body and mind. We have a good time here - beautiful activity room - for cards and games, a health "wellness" room for some exercises, a beautiful covered patio, laundry facilities, and a guest suite.

I am very thankful and blessed. I could not move my grand piano because of space - but do have my organ here in the activity room and enjoying it along with the people who want to listen to me play. Their joy brings me joy.

Have a nice Holiday Season and a wonderful 1998."

Mary Jane LeCrone

My mother told me last spring that she had decided to sell her home where she and my father, who died eleven years ago, had lived for many years. Her decision to move onto the assisted living center was totally her's, prompted by a concern for her own well-being as well as the concerns of her children and friends.

While visiting her recently, I commented on her wonderful attitude regarding the changes in her life when she moved. I asked her to tell me what she thought was the key element in her positive attitude and she said without hesitation, "Material things just aren't very important to me anymore; it's relationships that make me happy."

I knew that she had always valued relationships more than material things, but now at age 85, she could let this perspective help in making the adjustment from a home to assisted living.

Perhaps we can all benefit from my mother's wonderful and psychologically healthy philosophy during this season where values, perspectives, and attitudes about life are often more carefully considered and evaluated.