Slice of Life Day 28 of 31: Journeys (my March theme)
I’ve done some traveling on foot, on bicycle, (attempted) unicycle, by motorcycle, by car, by bus, by plane and train, by ferry, by boat, by tram, by subway and trolley. But perhaps the most unique way I’ve ever traveled is by submarine.
We took my in-laws on a fiftieth anniversary cruise a couple of years before my mother-in-law died of brain cancer in February 2021, and at the time of the cruise, she had already begun growing unsteady on her feet. We had wondered, but we didn’t yet know why. We looked for ways to take excursions and still get the full benefit of enjoyment in Cozumel and Grand Cayman. We’d worn shirts identifying us as a family in celebration, and that’s exactly what we intended to do, despite the nagging fears that a far more difficult journey lay ahead.
Cozumel is known for some of the most beautiful coral reefs in all the world, and although we were not able to see them by snorkeling, we arranged a submarine tour to enjoy the sights beneath the surface of the clear blue waters. We’d earned fancy certificates with all the thrill of certified tourists who had braved the depths of the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
I reflect today on the life of my mother in law, who never met a stranger, who embraced life wholeheartedly and who instilled in my husband all the qualities of being the fine gentleman that he is. The truth is, the rest of us would have preferred snorkeling, swimming in the warm waters, the up-closeness of the beautiful fishes and colorful reefs. But on that day, we found a way to all be together and enjoy the scenery in an even more unique way – the way of a family in celebration!
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” – Exodus 20:12
Common Threads 
Such a beautiful, poignant memory, Kim. I could feel the wonder and deep blueness of the sea and the unknown in regard to your mother-in-law even as your family celebrated this golden milestone. I have been out in a boat on the Gulf with dolphins swimming and jumping alongside. I once read that we know more about space than we do of the mysteries in the ocean depths. The ocean reef is a whole world of its own – I can only imagine the awe of it – and I remember, just now, that it is a symbol of immortality.
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when we travel w/ others we do what’s necessary for all to enjoy the journey. That means compromise, but it’s being together that really makes these moments special.
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This is a beautiful piece honoring your mother in law. I love the way of a family in celebration!
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This is a lovely post in many ways: a tribute to your late mother-in-law, an appreciation of her legacy to your husband, a travelogue, and a compelling slice of life. I enjoy your writing.
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