Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Autumn Leaves

As I watch the leaves change on the scores of trees that cling to these magnificent mountains, I think of my Mom. Trees have such strong roots anchored into the earth. That strength protects them along with numerous creatures from the elements. They can withstand the strongest of winds and extreme temperatures. Their branches seem to reach toward the heavens. They produce vasts amounts of beautiful leaves. Yet, in the fall, their leaves change color and make way for new leaves that will surely come in the spring. My mother is like these trees. She is deeply rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. She is a source of strength to me like no other has been in my life. She has weathered much and has yet to face storms that I could not even imagine facing. Her arms, like the branches, have always reached out to those in need and reached up to give thanks to God. Her beauty, like the gorgeous colors of autumn leaves, is unmatched. She is truly awe inspiring! Recently, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has faced so many rough storms over the past month. Yet, she remains so strong and anchored with a resolve to weather them. Even through all of this, her faith has not wavered. There have been tears, but her faith is solid. I can't even begin to fathom what she is going through. Her great hope and faith keep our family focused on weathering the storms with her. I can't help but think of the trees. In autumn, leaves may fall but in spring, after a time of winter, new leaves grow. There is a renewal of life. Although more storms and winter lie ahead, there will come spring and with it healing and renewed life. I love you mom. -Brackon

22 comments:

Mindie said...

Brackon you are so amazing! We are all so blessed to have you in our lives. Your insight and wisdom is inspiring. What kind words you have said for our sweet Mother. I love, think about you EVERYDAY and miss you tons! xoxoxo ~ Min

Livingstone Family said...

Thank you Brackon, that was truly inspiring-- to be better in all things! I think that she is lucky to have you, I'm sure you are a great source of stregnth to her, just as you are in our family. We love you and continue to pray for you and your family during this difficult time. And hey-- be nice to my cat!! XOXO

cmkdca88 said...

What a wonderful tribute to such an amazing woman! I love you and your sweet family so much and I know you are such a rock to them in so many ways.

It is pretty rude, though, to make your cousin cry when she is at work by the way - r-u-d-e rude.

I love you!

Tiffany said...

Sorry to hear about your mom, Brackon. I am going through similar things with my mom diagnosed with cervical cancer about a month ago. She will begin her treatments on Monday.

It's hard to see someone you love so much go through such harsh trials, but it sounds like your mom is a strong lady and will gain so much and inspire others along the way.

We have her in our prayers.

Honey said...

Brackon, you are amazing! I love what you wrote - straight from the heart to your wonderful mom. We're praying for you, Marcie and the girls, and all the Curtis family. May you all have the strength and courage you need during this hard time. We love you!

Tyler and Kacie said...

I know there was a reason you were born first! You are so inspiring and such an example to me. Thank you for writing such beautiful things about mom. I wish you could be here with us. I love you and miss you SO much!!! ♥Kacie

Charisse said...

I love what you wrote Brackon. We are sure praying for your Mom. Elder Nelson says, "Whatever the heartache the Lord will compensate." What a great example of unwavering faith.

laurie said...

Brackon ~ if I can regain my composure I will tell you that you are one of the greatest blessings in my life. I treasure you. I hold you in a sacred place in my heart. You are my first born. And clearly I have simply been an instrument in God's hands as He molds, defines and prepares one of His choice spirits. While reading your beautiful poetry I just couldn't imagine that you were talking about me. I will spend the rest of my life trying to live up to what the Lord expects of me. I love you my son ~ forever ~ mom

tiffcurtis said...

That was great Brackon, Can't wait to spend some time with you guys next week. I hope you can take us to a choice location where the leaves are at their peak, we will bring some back for Mom.

Sheli said...

Brackon this is a wonderful tribute to your mom. (sobing) You are an amazing person. Your family is amazing. You are all so close and I admire you all for that. I love you. Aunt Sheli

Carlye Momma said...

I'm not sure I can put into words how much I love you!!! What an incredible tribute to your beautiful mother! I am SO grateful you are my cousin! So grateful in fact I named MY firstborn after you...I always knew that was a perfect choice! I LOVE YOU BRACKON! You're such an amazing example to EVERYONE who is lucky enough to be in your life!

xoxoxo

Unknown said...

It is amazing how when these things happen our lives suddenly slow so tremendously. My sister was diagnosed with cancer two months after her baby was born and my grandmother also had breast cancer. They are both still alive today and cancer free! I will definitely keep you in my prayers. We love you guys!

Grandpa - Grandma Livingstone said...

Brackon that was soooooo beautiful! We love you so much. We love your WHOLE family. We're praying for you Laurie and Paul. We know you will be blessed. Lots of Love, Mom and Dad L.

Cheri' said...

We are so sorry to hear about Laurie. I still remember getting the call that Dave's mom had cancer. It's a tough road ahead with lots of ups and downs. She's a fighter though. We love you all and our prayer will be with you.

Blake Dogg said...

Nice poem. c ya 2morrow

Blake Dogg said...

Nice poem. c ya 2morrow

MarcomsMadness said...

What a beautiful tribute to your Mom Brackon! Your family is so blessed to have such a strong bond and love for each other. We love you all and are praying for your family.

Leticia said...

Brackon...
This is beautiful!!!
You guys have been so blessed with a wonderful mother...! I am sorry to hear this about you mother...we find strengh through our difficult times..."after the trials we will be blessed...but this life is the test." I hope you know that we will keep her in our prayers...
Love,
The Beck Family
Leticia, Rob, & Kids...

Candice Edgar said...

Hey Brackon,
I was so sorry to hear about your wonderful mom. Although its been a long time since I've seen your mom she holds a special place in my heart. She was such a wonderful Young Womens leader to me and I think of her often, especially since I am in YW now! I am sure she will do great especially with the support of your loving family! By the way, you have a super cute family!
Candice

Jeannie Barclay said...

What a sweet tribute to your mom Brackon! I loved reading it. You guys are awesome! Such a strength I'm sure to your sweet mother!

Quarantine Coronacation said...

Brackon,
I know exactly what you are talking about. Your mother touches people right to their soul. Her love is pure. I cherish her even though the time I was able to spend with her was very limited. She moved from the ward quickly after we moved in. However, I hold her close to my heart. I will pray for her and your family.

Stacy Heath

Anonymous said...

Brackon, I have been thinking about your mom so much. I actually went on your blog to see if there was any news. Then I found this tribute to her. What you wrote is true and beautiful. You are an extraordinary son. May the Lord bless all of the Curtis family.
Love, Cheryl