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It is with great sorrow that I have to tell everyone that Jane’s mother passed away a few minutes ago. We just got off the phone, and she is understandably devastated. I told her that you all have been wonderful and supportive, and that everyone sends their love. She said to tell everyone how much she appreciates it.
Please take some time to love your family and friends today in honor of Jane and her family in their time of sorrow. A little extra light would go a long way today.
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RIP
oh sad day
may perpetual light shine upon her
My condolences and best wishes for solace to Jane
Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. My mother died in 1999, and I miss her every day. Peace.
Peace, Jane, and godspeed
Our condolences, Jane.
Take as much time as you need, we’ll watch your back.
Such terrible news. Allow me to convey my heartfelt sorrow over Janes loss. Her mother must have been a wonderful woman.
My condolences. be good to yourself Jane.
I’m so very sorry.
So sad for Jane, but I’m so glad she was there. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
Any of us who have been through this may have felt the surreal feeling when coming back to work and back to the “real” world after such a loss. We need to give Jane time and space to re-enter at her own speed when she is ready.
I hope Jane can feel the warmth and hugs we are all sending her.
So sorry to hear that news. Sounds like a similar ending that my grandma faced… :(
Best wishes, Jane. Your online friends and fans support you.
Please accept my deepest condolences. I am very saddened to hear of this news.
My very best regards.
My deepest sympathies to Jane and her family.
Jane, we send our love and our shared sorrow to you and your sister.
Jane, my sincerest sympathies to you.
Jane, I am so sorry. I wish you all the very best in this time of your great loss. Peace.
Galveston, the shoreline receding in the mist. Wrapped in a blanket of love in the last days, and now, forever.
We love you and wish you peace.
Sorry for your loss Jane, my wife and my thoughts are with you and your family in your time of sorrow.
I missed you the past couple days, Jane and wondered where you were. I guess I missed the announcement. I’m so sorry and I’m sending healing thoughts for you and your sister and all those who loved your mother.
I’m terribly sorry to hear that. Our hearts are with you.
Dear Jane,
Those of us who have lost a parent understand your sorrow. We are very sorry for your loss.
Peace and love to you and your family.
I know how comforting it was for Jane to be there. We join you in sorrow. TMA
As one who has lost both my parents may I extend my condolences and sympathetic understanding. I know what you’re going thorugh, Jane. Your mother must have been extraordinary to have raised a daughter like you.
In time, even though the loss endures, the sorrow passes and the memories remain. I am sure they are good memories. Treasure them.
Dearest Jane
We are a devastated for you. Nothing is this world is as hard as losing a child or a parent and it does not matter how old you or they are.
You do so much for all of us, I just we wish i could do something that would help you bear this pain. Papdoug and I send our love and prayers to you and your family.
Good work, keeping things humming along, Christy!
Jane, I am so sorry about the loss of your mother. I recently lost my father, and there is just nothing that one can say to ease the pain over the loss of a parent. She will always be with you and in your heart. Again, I am so very sorry. Take care of yourself.
My condolences for your loss Jane. *hug*
I’m so sorry to hear that. Poor Jane. :(
My most heartfelt condolences. I’m going to go hug my kids now.
There really are no words, except that we are all you in your sorrow.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4
To have raised such a one as you, Jane, your mother must have been special. She must have been very proud of you.
My condolences during your time of sorrow.
My deepest condolences Jane. May the times of joy and happiness you had with your Mom give you peace.
So sorry Jane. I feel I know you through your writing — I know you will confront this with strength. Best wishes.
oh, no. so very sorry, Jane.
dear Jane–so many of us want to reach out and touch you in your sorrow. I hope you are surrounded by loving family and friends at this time, just as your blogfriends and blogfamily would love to be able to comfort you in person right now.
and a blessing on the soul of your dear mother–in my tradition we say: “may light perpetual shine upon her.”
Jane,
Deep condolences to you in your sorrow and loss. Everyone I know who has been part of this profound experience of the death of a loved family member is grateful to have had those last moments to be with them, however stress-filled and painful. I hope your mother is at peace now.
My condolences to Jane and her family.
There’s no way to be prepared for this. You think you are, and then it just blows you away.
I wish Jane and her family love and strength…
Jane, my prayers and sympathies are with you and your sister. My mother passed away in 2004. Fortunately I was able to get back to the east coast and spend a couple of weeks with her before the end. The main thing was her knowing that her now grown kids were around her. As seems to have been the case with your mom. May she have peace and good traveling to whatever lies beyond.
Peace and hugs, Jane
So sorry to hear this. For her the pain is done, the healing complete. Our hurt lasts longer, but will also heal with time.
I tried to post a candle and it showed up in preview but not in my comment.
Oh well. There is a candle burning in my heart, Jane, for you and your mom and your whole family.
Jane and family,
my deepest condolences. My mother died in my arms 12 years ago, it was hard but I would’nt have had it any other way. Remember the good times, the love, and the humor!
My heartfelt condolences. I lost my dear brother 10 years ago and…that’s all I’ll say.
Jane
Your whole family is here. Deepest condolences.
My deepest sympathy to Jane and her family. I know how hard it is to lose a parent.
Perhaps, when she has sufficiently recovered, Jane can suggest a cause or charity for FDLers to contribute to in honor of her mother.
I’m very sorry for your loss Jane. My thoughts are with you and your family on this most difficult of days.
My deepest sympathies…
Jane,
Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family on your loss.
Jane,
I am very sad for your loss. I would love to know more about this strong woman so that I can celebrate her memory.
Jane,
Of course my condolences…but celebrate the best parts of mom’s life along with the grieving.
Have some soup and a Dr.Pepper to keep your strength up.
Dan in Beaverton
Firepups are crying.
Jane,
We are profoundly saddened by your loss and share your grief-
Let us always remember…
Be Generous
..with your time
..your love
..your life
Larry
So very sorry for Jane and her family. Thank goodness Moms phsyical suffering didn’t have to continue. Thanks Christy for keeping us pups informed.
My prayers are with Jane and her family.
Jane, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m glad you and your sister are there for each other and were able to be there for your mom.
Jane- My heart is heavy with sorrow for you. You have given me so much and I can only give you words in return… I am so sorry for your loss.
Dave Latchaw: yes.
Jane, I am so sorry you lost your mother. I don’t think we “get over it” as time passes. The hole never fills up; it’s just there. No matter how old we get, our parents can still make us feel like lost children, and never more so than when they are gone forever. But the deep wordless bond with a human being who shares unconditional love with you is worth all the pain of losing them. And after a while, the pain leaves the front of your brain to take up residence in a back room where it isn’t so demanding.
My sincere condolences Jane.Wiping away a tear for you and your family.May God hold her in his hands and give you strength to endure.I lost my mom 5 days before my 21st birthday.She still watches over me.Yours will too.
I am so sorry for Jane and her family. My heart goes out to them and hurts for their loss.
I am grateful she was able to be there at this sorrowful time.
Emotions and values intertwined and given life through action across the generations; past on and adapted. Life goes on, the struggle to be decent and caring goes on. Jane has friends and allies she’s never met. Consider me one. And her mom’s spirit moves among us in ways we can’t see or even imagine.
Very sorry to read this. I recall when my own mother died, and it was quite a hole in my life: the absence of a person who has known and loved me since the moment I was born. No one else like that at the time. (My father had died years before.)
It takes time to get one’s head and heart around that absence. My condolences to Jane and the family.
My sincerest condolences. ((((hugs))))
Dear Jane,
Your mother must have been an amazing woman, and you are the proof positive of that, she no doubt had more than a little to do with what a bright, committed and inspiring person you are. You are obviously surrounded by much love within your immediate family and beyond to your extended blogosphere family. For myself I just wanted to add my condolences at her passing and wish you healing and peace.
Grace and peace to you and yours, Jane.
I am so very sorry. Mr. K8 and I send our love.
We know that there is nothing for it, but to go through the pain, as when a mighty storm crashes over you. The pain is the price of love.
Our prayers go out to you and your family.
My heartfelt sympathies to Jane and family.
Robbie 64
And her mom’s spirit moves among us in ways we can’t see or even imagine.
Nice.
So sorry, Jane (and to the rest of your family).
Take care of yourself, hear?
Oh, my deepest, deepest condolences to you and your family, Jane.
Your mother was a joy to us all, because she raised you to be who you are today. She had so much to be proud of.
Take care.
I am sorry of the loss to you and your family, and wish the best for you.
For Jane the big hurt begins. Nothing anyone can say will make a difference. I know. Why do mothers have to leave? There should be a rule against it. And for me, there will be one less star in the Oklahoma skies tonight. For we have lost another precious Oklahoman. I sincerely wish Jane the best.
Our family’s deepest sympathy to you and your family, we are simply heartbroken for ya and pray there’s a swarm of Angels to provide comfort to you and your sis
The cord that binds us one to the other can not be cut, surely not by death
Dear Jane – My love and my best efforts of condolances go out to you and your sister. Please take all the time in the world to take care of eachother.
Condolences to you Jane and and to your family.
“You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.”
(Exodus 9:4)
Heartfelt condolences on your loss, Jane. You are not alone, though, we are with you no matter the distance.
Jane,
I hope in time your sadness turns to smiles in memory of you mom.
I’m very sorry to hear of your loss, Jane. I know what that feels like, having it happen to me and my family about three years ago. Best wishes.
Deepest condolences, Jane and your loved ones. It’s a blessing that your mother could see you becoming successful in a young endeavor that is fulfilling and meaningful to so many people.
My prayers and thoughts go to Jane and her family. Love never dies, and that is a great comfort over time.
deepest sympaty
Deepest condolences to Jane and her family and friends.
So sorry, Jane.
W. H. Auden expresses the pain of separation when someone we deeply love dies: (IX in Twelve Songs)
“The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood.
For nothing now can ever come to any good.”
Hang in there, Jane. We’re all thinking about you.
Just…so sorry to hear this. All of our best wishes go with you.
Jane, I am sorry for the death of your mother and my thoughts go with you.
Oh Jane,I’m so sorry.But I am glad you could be there and be with her.
There’s not alot to say at a time of loss,but do know we all are with you in spirit and with love.((((gentle hugs))))
My deepest regrets for the loss of your Mother, Jane. Mothers are truly the heart that keeps on beating — for in you and your siblings, and everyone who has known her and you, her memory will stay alive for a very long time into the future. I believe life is a relay, passing the baton of good heart, strength to endure, and hope for the future on to those remaining on this earth.
Close your eyes and just feel the love of those that have met Life’s only ending. Only to keep that love alive.
My thoughts are with you and your family and you now face this world with only her memory to comfort.
My deepest sympathies to you, Jane -
I trust she saw how much she inspired you in your current role – and how much you inspire others, in turn.
She must have been a remarkable woman to have raised such a daughter as Jane …
My deepest sympathies go out to Jane and her family in this difficult time. Take your time coming back. We’ll all be thinking of you in the meantime.
I am moved by the caring and eloquence of firedoglake’s supporters.
My sympathies for your loss, Jane.
My deepest condolences to you, Jane, and to your family. I’m glad you were able to be there to ease your mother’s passage; I’m sure she felt the sweet comfort of your love and caring, and she will live in your heart forever.
Anne
My deepest sympathies to Jane and her family.
So sorry for your tremendous loss. I hope that you will be gentle with yourself in this very sad time. My thoughts are with you.
Jane and family, deepest sympathies at this time. I’m getting choked up as I type this. My own mother passed away a couple of years ago, but we were able to be with her at the end. Take care of yourself. You will be in my thoughts.
sweetp
Please accept my condolences….
Upon the lotus flower
morning dew is
thinning out.
Sometimes words aren’t enough and poetry can properly step into the breach.
Blessings and God’s speed to your mom, Jane. I send you strength to get you through this passage.
… joy and sorrow are inseparable. . . together they come and when one sits alone with you . . . remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.
Kahlil Gibran
My thoughts are with you Jane.
The thoughts and prayers of our family are with you today. So sorry for your loss.
…she’s on that boat now….
With deepest sympathy, my condolences, Jane, to you and your family.
So sorry to hear the news. My sympathies to all.
Words fail
Hugs to you, Jane, from a daily reader.
“And He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”
Jane, I’m sorry for your loss. It’s not an easy thing for a child of any age to go through. Peace to you and your family.
Jane:
A poem by Blaga Dimitrova
“In the beginning was the word,
and in the end – lack of words?
I accept death
in the same way
the child does not.
The forbidden sea-
for the imagination
what is forbidden
is the wind for the fire.
The word is my open sea.
I throw myself in it.
Alone. Wirth the word in my throat
like a stone on my neck-
I sink, I sink-
a sealed bottle-
to emerge in the word.
Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. May you find strength in your mother’s love.
Jane, you are in my thoughts and prayers. In times to come, memories will get you through – and even, sometimes, make you smile.
Oh, Jane, I’m so very sorry to hear this. Although you may be feeling inconsolable at the moment, please accept my deepest condolences. There are never the right words. Your mother has imprinted such amazing qualities in you. Take those and in time go forward in her honor.
Warmest regards,
Gayle
My deepest condolences. Let us know if we can do anything for you. :(
And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.
Love really is all there is. Hope you can feel ours for you and yours, Jane.
I saw an epitaph which rings true:
“The death of a mother is the first sorrow we won’t share with her”.
Best wishes and prayers from an inveterate lurker.
I am so sorry to hear this, Jane. My deepest condolences to you, your sister and all of your family.
Deep peace of the running wave to you
Deep Peace of the flowing air to you
Deep Peace of the quiet Earth to you
Deep Peace of the shining stars to you
Deep Peace of the gentle night to you
Moon and stars pour forth their healing light on you.
Deep Peace to you. Deep Peace!
Condolences.
Ghostman
So very sorry to hear it. Jane, you and your sister are in my prayers. Blessings.
Jane, profound condolences for your loss. Tears here, too.
I am so sorry, Jane. Please know that we are all praying for you and sending our warmest thoughts and sympathy to you. May God enfold you in His mercy and bring you comfort through this painful time.
Much love,
David
Condolences and warmest thoughts to you during this time.
Soisialach
Jane, I’m so sorry for your family’s loss.
Most sincere condolences, Jane.
Dear Jane– my heart goes out to you. She may be gone, but she is not lost. Love endures.
Jane, your family here at the Lake are mourning with you.
Jane, Please remember your mom at her best and remember that what she wanted most for you was to be happy, the prayer of all mothers.
Regards,
Marion
My sincere condolences, and wishes for peace beyond the sorrow.
I wanted to extend my condolences as well to Jane and her family. From what Jane has written – her mom sounds wonderful. My thoughts and sympathies are with all of them.
‘Sleep sweetly, tender heart, in peace;
Sleep, holy spirit, blessed soul,
While the stars burn, the moons increase,
And the great ages onward roll.’”
– Alfred Lord Tennyson
Dear Jane,
I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing and your sorrow. Suzanne
Jane — my sympathy and prayers to both you and your family.
I wrote this when my father died this year:
“With grace moving in the world, my father will stop being afraid, and his spirit will at last be free.”
Your mother’s spirit will be with you and your family. The loss may be devasting now, but as the grief passes, you will find comfort in her memory and her presence.
I’m real sorry for you Jane.
My heart goes out to you and your family in this time of loss.
Jane,
My deepest sympathies and empathies. I lost my Dad in 1992, Mom in 1993.
Grieve in your own way, there is no ‘right’ or ‘correct’ way. Laugh, cry, scream, shout, do what what feels natural at that time.
{{{{hugs}}}}
Jane,
My condolences go out to you and your family.
Peace be with you and your family, Jane. Know that you are beloved by so many of us.
Jane, I’m so sorry to hear about your mother. She must have been so proud of you. Sending warm, supportive thoughts your way.
Jane; my sincerest condolences.
Jane,
You have touched us in very profound ways through this blog.
I know this to be more true now because my heart hurts and I feel sorrow.
We will be here and strong for you.
Peace.
T-
Oh Jane, I am so sorry. I read fdl every day, and I feel like you’re my family. My heart is breaking for you today.
Oh, Jane. Big hugs to you.
Deepest sympathy, Jane. While there is obviously no silver lining at a moment like this, there’s value in the fact that you were able to be there for her, that family was there, that you and your mother had at least some opportunity to make peace with the dictates of fate. Warmest thoughts in this difficult time.
We are thinking of you and your family and we are sorry for your loss..
Ah, crud.
Big hugs, Jane.
.
Jane,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
My deepest sympathies to Jane, her family and all of her mother’s friends.
No, No, you cannot go
I must, says Mother
for I have other places
to visit
other faces to greet
No, No, you cannot leave me
I must, says Mother
for I have other tears
to wipe away
other stories to listen to
But I cannot exist without you
I say
It is time for me to go
and all I have learned
I have passed on
and now resides with you,
I love you, pass it on my daughter.
——-
I wrote this at the bedside of my mother as she lay dying at the end of a very long struggle. She was in a coma and I played her favorite songs, I sang, I had fresh flowers brought so the smell was of nature, not nursing home. All alone with her it was very hard, and yet that day remains a bright spot of being there beside her with all the strength that she had shared with me over the years.
I share it now because my heart is remembering.
Jane’s consolation will be that she was there for her mother in these last days when her mother needed her most, and the knowledge that she and her sister were the light of her mother’s life always.
{{{HUGS and KISSES Jane}}} PLUS a LOAD OF LOVE.
I know what you’re going through, and it’s never an easy time in our lives.
You and your sister, take care of yourselves.
What a great kid you are with everything you do and stand for. The apple never falls far from the tree. It’s a helluva job, counsel. Take it easy.
I think no daughter is ever without her mother. My mother slipped away from Alzheimer’s three years ago, yet I feel her in my bones. She speaks through my voice and sees through my eyes. We cannot be separated.
It’s a terrible shock to lose a parent, even when we know it’s going to happen. But in so many ways you cannot lose them at all.
Deepest condolences.
Jane:
My mother died a few years ago, and I realized then that not everything has to be ok. Its liberating and deepening and life-affirming to fully feel, remember and mourn the loss of one you love. I hope you will do what you need to do to express that as much as you can.
My condolences to you and your family. Her love for you is really all that matters in the long run.
Im sitting here in tears, and I dont even know Jane.
It just hit me hard thinking of my own mum’s passing in 2004.
Its a good time to call who you love and tell them so.
Blessed Be.
Dear Jane & family & friends,You have all my sympathy & empathy. I used to post here & only lurk now, but . . . .Over the next few weeks, many things will take place & some people, events, emotions, thoughts & concerns will seem prominent to you. Try to hold them in your heart & in your mind. Because–You will never forget the death of your mother, so let it be.
Hang in there Jane.
We love you.
My thoughts are with you, Jane.
My condolences. I lost my Mom in February. There may be a hole in your heart right now – pls remember the good times and unconditional love your Mother gave you. She will always be there.
So sorry, Jane.
Jane, I am so sorry for your loss.
Jane,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
I know this is part of the mystery and wonder of life, but why does it have to be so painful? Eternity is too large and too long to contemplate. I hurt for you, Jane.
I hope quoting Charles Kuralt’s signoff from CBS Sunday morning isn’t irreverent. I’ve lost both my folks also. Nothing, no words can really help. But I’ve found some solace in this for myself.
——-
“There is a rhyme by Clarence Day which says what I want to say. “Farewell my friends, farewell and hail, I’m off to seek the Holy Grail. I cannot tell you why. Remember, please, when I am gone, ’twas aspiration led me on. Tiddly widdly, tootle-lou, all I want is to stay with you. But here I go.”
Goodbye.”
———
Jane it is very important to take care of yourself. Please do. My heart is with you and yours.
Jane,
When you wrote yesterday about how you were by your mother’s side, and that she was slipping in out of consciousness…my thoughts were that her time on this earth was coming to an end. I was so sorry to read Christy’s post that in fact your mother died this morning.
Take all the time you need. It is so hard to lose a person that has given unconditional love, so allow yourself time to grieve.
I’m so sorry. go easy now, please.
Jane, my thoughts and condolences are with you and your family.
The loss of a parent is devestating. Ny father died in 1964 and my mother in 1987. I haven’t gotten over the loss of either of them.
Just keep breathing deeply and easily, Jane.
All my love.
Jane, take care and know we luv ya.
My deepest condolences.
Having lost both my parents, and an in-law as well, I know that grief is experinced differntly by all, every time.
Mothers are a precious resource.
I still talk to mine 11 years after her passing.
I believe that one the greatest legacies and “monuments” that a parent can give to this earth is to raise a child that give back to rest the humanity…and Jane has sure as heck done that for the short time that I have known her through Firedoglake and saw at YK.
Jane,you can be proud of the legacy that your mom left for the rest of us.
And Marty Peretz is lower than pond scum.
My sympathy to you, Jane, and your family. Hang tough.
May the Lord keep her and cherish her,
May she find her self in a better place.
May the life she lived and the love she gave never be forgotten,
And may she rest in eternity knowing her loved ones could not have loved her more.
So Sorry. I hope you find some comfort in these words. I did when I wrote them a few years ago when I lost a dear loved one.
Oh, Momma. So sorry, Jane. Hearts to you and all those around you.
my heart is w/you and your family jane. i’m sure you helped make her life very full and proud. w/heart, love, annie
So sorry dearheart.
Much love Jane, from many communities and many hearts.
Empathy and respect for Jane and her family from an admirer in Hamburg, Germany. A candle is burning.
My deepest condolences for your loss. Take every opportunity to feel, for you will never know when it will hit you the most. It would have been my son’s 14th birthday today. Best wishes to all your family.
Jane, I hope your mom understood how much her child means to the rest of us, and the victories society can claim because of the child she brought into this world and raised
Jane, I’m so sorry. Crying now. My mother passed away a year ago, March, after a 3 year battle with cancer. The first year is hard: one rememberance after another – your birthday, her birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mother’s Day – each holiday and anniversary a reminder of loss. The pain eases over time. Peace and comfort to you and your family. A shining, joyous transition for your mother into whatever “new thing” she wished for. We hold you in our hearts with love. Blessed Be.
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, Jane.
I was away from my pc and just heard about this on DKos and CnL. I lost my mother last November, Jane has nothing but my sympathies.
Take care, it gets better, but it never quite goes away. And there are plenty of people pulling for you.
Peace.
Crimson
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother must have been very proud of you—a shining light to so many.
Sweet Jane, I’m so sorry.
Thinking of you today. Family and friends.
Love everlasting.
Sorry to hear about your mom.
Oh, Jane and family, My deepest sympathy on the loss of your mom. The best part of her lives on in you. I know you made her very proud and I know you loved her very much. Peace and healing to you all.
I’m so sorry to hear this. :( My sincere and deepest condolences to you and yours. Best wishes and God speed…
My heart is with you, Jane.
Jane,
Offering you and your family deepest sympathies.
Take however much time you need. We’ll all be here for you until then.
-Greg/GSD
How is it that our being is at once so unbearably light and so richly resonant as this?
Condole: to grieve with. May I offer my quiet condolence to Jane and her family.
She must have been amazing person to raise someone with such an intellect as Jane’s.
Jane,
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you.
I am so very sorry, Jane. Know that you and your family are in our thoughts….
Jane,
You and your family are in my thoughts on this sad day. ac
Very very sorry for your loss. As others before me have said, I’m sure she was very proud of you.
Words seem deeply insufficient.
Jane,
My sympathy to you and your family. Our mothers are so special. I know this is a difficult time.
My condolences, Jane
Jane,
Many condolences your way. You are a light and a beacon for the progressive blogosphere and a wonderful person to boot. I’m sure your mom was very proud of you.
My wife and I will keep you and your family in our thoughts.
Jane, sorry for the loss of your mom. I think the whole FDL community is thinking of you at this difficult time and wish you the best.
Jane,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences to you and your entire family…We’re all thinking about you.
Mike in WV
Peace
Deep and sincere condolences…..
Gosh, I can only echo what others have so eloquently said. Jane and family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
The black-costumed stagehands that try to invisibly keep the FDL production flowing smoothly are wearing black armbands in grief. We are also busy shooing away the Phelps Family members flocking in from the rightwing blogosphere …
We all send our love and tears to share with you and your family. After this terrible hurt passes, you will find, as I did, that your mother is still there within you.
Jane, so sorry.
Thanks, *ilson. We appreciate y’alls efforts.
Best Wishes and Deep Condolences
So very sorry for the loss. Breathe deep, for she is in the air.
My deepest condolences to you and your Family for your loss.
Jane, I’ve known you only as electrons, but you’ve become so essential a part of my day. I feel deeply for you and your family and will think of you when I hug my child tonight.
Ralph B
I’m so very sorry, Jane. My thoughts are with you and your sister.
When the minutes of life have ticked away there is the sadness of departure and the gratitude of having been part of a life is no more. Love is a truly great and human thing.
Hi Jane,
May a lifetime of memories with your mom carry you thru this.
Hugs and hearts
Jane,
You have my condolences, sweet lady. I will keep you in my prayers.
Rest in Peace with the Lord.
Jane:
My heart breaks for you and your sister right now, but I am so grateful to your mother for her gift to the world…you.
I’m so sorry. We all share in your loss …
she walks, footsteps lighter and lighter
on city streets, the sandy beach and in the dappled forest green
and when she reaches the circle of light
she enters, turns
then she smiles and spreads her arms around the world
love & peace,
(from a kossack joining this wonderful family)
So sorry, Jane, for you and your family. Best wishes.
Jane please accept my dearest condolences. I’ve read what you’ve written about your mom in the past. She reminds me of my own. I know what a loss mine would be to me. I can only imagine what you’re going through.
Best Wishes
jane, i’m so very sorry. to grow up with a wonderful, loving mother is to be truly blessed. i’m another someone here who lost her mother, and this resonates very deeply. wishing peace, strength and healing to you and your family.
I’m so sorry, Jane. My heart goes out to you and your family.
It’s inspiring to see how people here really come together like a family.
Hi -
I don’t comment on this site usually but it is one of my definite reads and, in that way, I, like many others, feel like I’ve gotten to know you.
I am so sorry to hear about your mom. It’s funny, no matter how old, i don’t think we are ever ready for this major shift in our world. I wish you the best. When I’m sad about the loss of my family members, I do think the best legacy I can give them is to fight to be happy (not that easy some of the time) because I know that is what they would want.
best -
Best regards Jane. So sorry for our loss.
my deepest condolences on your loss… my heart and prayers go out to you and your family at this time…
peace and love to you and all those touched by your mother’s life, Jane.
There are no adequate words.
:::hug:::
My heart goes out to you and your family. Your mother leaves behind a daughter who gives so much to so many. She must have been a special person.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. A couple of years ago, both my parents died. At the age of 60, I was suddenly an orphan and had to grow up; what a shock, even though expected.
Jane,
Our hearts are with you and your family!
When reading this, I thought of you:
Dreadful news, Jane. You have our deepest sympathy.
It breaks my heart that some people on my side of the political spectrum would be so hateful as to hurl invective anytime, let alone when someone suffers such a close family loss.
Jane – I was just so sorry to hear of your mother’s death. I still miss mine even though it’s been nearly 20 years. You & your sister are in my thoughts.
I read this blog several times a day, reply on it, in fact, for good insights. Although I am a stranger, please accept my sincerest condolences.
Oh, Jane.
Prayers and best wishes to you and your sister, and your whole family. So sorry.
Dear Jane, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Strange that this has been on my mind lately:
A Hint of Rose
Old woman
You have left me in my dreaming
I’ve longed for your warmth
Your sunrise to my days
As a child I lingered
near you
Old woman
You never could have remained
The face so familiar is gone
So far from this place
The child who needs you
haunts me
Old woman
I saw you sleeping a long time ago
The lamplight discovered your
Soft somber glow and
Found on your cheek a hint
of rose
Also strange: I’ve never met you. Why is my face wet?
We love you, that’s why, I guess. God bless you and keep you.
My father said after the murder of his last surviving brother (Big Uncle, we called him) that as long as his parents were alive, some of the child in him survived. I saw that after my uncle’s murder the last of the child in him died.
Both my parents survive, and yet many of us here who are fortunate not to have suffered the loss of our parents will soon. I can imagine, but at this point only imagine, the loss that Jane has suffered.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. Grieve as you must, but remember that she lives on in you and your sister.
BC
I’m so sorry. My sympathy for you and your fine family.
You have my deepest heartfelt sympathy, Jane.
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family Jane…
My prayers are with you…….
Jane, my deepest condolences to you and your family during this time of sadness and loss. I can only think you inherited your spunk and intelligence from your mom. I know she was proud of you and the good you’re doing. The FDL community is with you now.
I’m so sorry, Jane. Condolences on behalf of all at the Brain, Mrs. F and myself as well. Anything we can do, say the word.
Jane,
While a death is tragic, it must have been good for your mother to have you there with her in her last days. She must have been very proud of you, and knows that she’s made the world a better place for bringing you into it.
Christy, thanks for your suggesting to hug our families a little extra tight today — I’ll definitely be doing that. And all the firedoglake family, too. Take care.
Jane, I extend my deep sympathy to you. The picture at the top of the thread identifies the richness and the loss so well.
Jane,
I’m so sorry for your loss.
You’ve written about your mother’s strength, how she was an influence in your life. Take some solace in the memories she’s left you, and pride in what her example has led you to do in your life.
My sympathy and thoughts are with you, Jane.
When the minutes of life have ticked away there is the sadness and pain of departure and the gratitude of having been part of a life that is no more. Love is truly a great and human thing.
I am so sorry to hear about your mom.
Peace.
Sory to hear this…it’s a uniquely personal, yet universal experience we all must go through. It never is easy and I wish you and your family the best in the days ahead.
Sadness.
I am so sorry to hear this.
My deepest condolences to Jane and her family.
Jane, my condolences to you and your family.
NZ is right, that is such a poignant image. Christy, you have done a fine job keeping things together here.
Thanks, also, moderator. Quick, quiet and efficient.
Not matter what age, you are always your mother’s child. I am so sorry for your loss.
My father passed about 4 years ago. He and I were/are both physicians. It was in the last years of his life we really got to know and understand each other. That helped me tremendously.
Nothing that I can type will make you feel any better except that it seems that she didn’t suffer. I pray that she passed with dignity and grace. I hope that both of you said everything that needed to be said. May both of you have peace.
Deepest heartfelt condolences, Jane. I’m so greatful you got to spend time with your Mom. My mother passed away in March, but I was unable to get from California to Pennsylvania in time to speak with her.
I’m so very sorry. My condolences to you and your family, Jane.
Condolences …
Deepest condolences to you Jane, and to your sister and extended family. Your mother knew your love and concern. I hope that you find a measure of comfort and peace in that knowledge.
Condolences and best wishes.
Jane, I’m so sorry about your mom.
Never Again Would Bird’s Song Be the Same
He would declare and could himself believe
That the birds there in all the garden round
From having heard the daylong voice of Eve
Had added to their own an oversound,
Her tone of meaning but without the words.
Admittedly an eloquence so soft
Could only have had an influence on birds
When call or laughter carried it aloft.
Be that as may be, she was in their song.
Moreover her voice upon their voices crossed
Had now persisted in the woods so long
That probably it never would be lost.
Never again would birds’ song be the same.
And to do that to birds was why she came.
Robert Frost
Jane,
I remember how you wrote in “Killer Instincts” that your Mom saved your financial butt many times. I’m sure You’ve paid her back 1,000 fold.
Jane,
Condolences to your and your family.
Oh. man…this reallly hurts when I think of her post from a day or so ago (”Thanks”). I send my deepest condolences and just want it to be known that yes, I too, along with the others “have her back”.
Stay strong, Jane. I’ll pray for you and yours.
Best,
LowerManhattanite
Jane, bless you. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Jane
I am so sorry.
Jane
Sincere condolences for your loss. May your heart be comforted by love and warmed by healing light.
A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep Proverbs vi,10
No child ever grows old enough to suffer the death of a parent easily.
My very sincere sympathy to you and your family.
My heartfelt condolences, Jane. You’re in my thoughts.
Jane,
I hope it helps in some small way that my heart goes out to you and I wish you and yours the best.
DMM
Jane,
I lost my mother a couple of years ago. It’s hard and I still think of her and just feel an empty place that she used to fill. Stay Strong. You’re needed.
Jane -
My sincerest condolences.
I very much hope that when my own mother passes on, that she will be as proud of me as your mother undoubtedly was proud of you for all you have done over the past few years on firedoglake.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am so happy you were able to spend precious time with her in her final days. Thanks to you for being who you are, and to your mom for her guidance in bringing up such a great activist daughter. May her soul rest in perfect peace.
I remember my brother dying when I was young. Years later my mother commented, that all the visitors and well-wishers didn’t make the pain go away, but it helped to know that so many people cared, it helped to know that one persons life meant something to so many.
When my father died a few years ago, I felt like I had lost my foundation, I had not realized how much of a steady presence my father had been in my life. I felt lost for a while, and it wasn’t until I began to see him as someone who lived a good life, and who set me on my path, that I felt I knew my way again.
I know that we are not our parents, but they live in us. Thats not a total consolation, but it helps to know that they are not gone. May you find peace, hope and fond memory. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time Jane, sorry for your loss.
My condolences to Jane and her family. It’s a hard thing.
I’m sorry.
*hugs*
so sorry for your loss.
My condolences to you and yours, Jane.
Love and prayers winging to you and your family. I hope you are somewhat comforted by the many thoughts from this family here at FDL. It is obvious to me that your mother is smiling at us all.
You can be so glad that you spent these last days and hours with your dear mother. I had the same experience eleven years ago and those final days are very much alive in my present life. I know how proud your mother must have been of you for the remarkable work you do in the blogosphere; I do hope she had many opportunities to visit firedoglake to experience at firsthand your (sometimes) witty and (always) cogent aguments for your positions. My family joins me in expressing our sincere condolences for your and your sister’s loss; we hope you have beautiful memories of Mom to carry with you as long as you live.
These things are so hard. When my own mother died, it was completely expected and she even welcomed it (she was bedridden and a week shy of ninety years old). But it was still so hard. Jane, you’ve made a lot of new friends in the last few months, and you’ve made our lives a little better. I hope you feel some of that coming back to you.
Oh, man. I’m so so sorry to hear this.
Very sincere sympathies to Jane and her family. I’m glad she was able to be with her mom when she died. I wish I could have been with my dad.
So very sorry.
i am so sorry for your loss. you’re definitely in my family’s prayers today. god bless the both of you.
Jane–my condolences, my thoughts go out to you and yours.
Jane,
I lost both my parents to extended illnesses. Both times, it was excruciating. I know, first hand, that you are devastated. Consider yourself hugged. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
{{{Jane, you and yours are in my thoughts, and have my deepest condolences}}}
I’m very sorry for your loss, Jane.
I can think of no better reason to still go on that cruise with your family…she’ll be there in spirit with you.
You deserve a break before your inevitable return to the daily slag.
Jane, I am saddened to hear about your mother. I wish you and your family my deepest condolences.
Dear Jane,
I was so sorry to learn of your mom’s passing today. Please know that you and your family are in all of our thoughts and prayers. A Southern preacher once said that by looking into the eyes of the children, we see their ancestors. Based on what I know of you, your mom must have been quite a woman.
Please let us know if there’s any way in which we might help.
With sympathy,
Scott
Jane,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Just got here, and just got the news . . .
Peace, Jane – to you and your family – if not today, then tomorrow.
May your mourning turn to dancing; if not today then tomorrow.
May your wailing turn to singing; if not today, then tomorrow.
May your sorrow turn to joy; if not today, then tomorrow.
Be at peace, and know that you are loved – yesterday, today, and tomorrow as well.
To Jane and your family: Our hearts are with you as you face the loss of your mother. Accepting death of a loved one is crushing hard, but your memories will live on into your own distant future that has been shaped by your relationship in the past.
Oh, Jane,
So terribly, deeply sorry for your loss. We’ve both been through it, and your heart never really callouses over that huge hole, it’s just that time helps bring more smiles than tears to your memories. I also believe our loved ones never really leave us: they’re right here with us, we just can’t see them any more. God bless.
My sympathies to you Jane. A mother is a terrible thing to lose. We are all with you.
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss. Words can not express the feelings I wish to convey. Please take care of yourself and your family.
Jane — true condolences to you. My “daddy” died a couple of years ago — and it was hard. And he was 92. It is never easy, but just remember all the wonderful things she did. It helps, it really does.
Peace to you Jane and your family. It always comes as a shock even if you know it is coming. You and your sister were with her these last days. She does know that you love her. And love never dies. As you go on and gain distance from this moment this will be THE ONE THING you will learn. That the love never dies.
Jane,I am so sorry for your loss; your Mum raised you well. God bless you and your family.
To lose one’s mother
is to bear the loneliness
of all the ages.
(We’re with you Jane. Our thoughts and love are with you.)
Dearest Jane,
You have been a light in my life – your wisdom and passion and intelligence have bouyed me. I am grateful to your mother, who achieved much. The loss of my father two years ago still pains me but that I was with him then is a source of comfort. Our love was deeply shared, as I am sure your mother felt with you. It is such a painful turning point in one’s life. My thoughts are with you.
Hamburger
Jane, you have my deepest sympathy. I am a spirit at this site, in that I visit and read every day but don’t post comments here. It is not that I don’t have something to say, but usually one of the other commenters beats me to it. I know that there are thousands of us spirits out there who are all sending you and your family waves of love and compassion right now, and we wish that we could do more.
Condolences from Alabama…
Jane, I am sorry for your loss. Will hug my friends (and kitties) extra today.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family, Jane. My mother passed away 5 years ago and remembering her life always helps.
My deepest condolences, Jane. She must have been a great woman to have raised such a strong and independent daughter. To have a
mother like that is the greatest gift in life.
Jane. I am so sorry. Your mom must have been very proud of the way that you’re fighting for our country.
De-lurking after all these months to offer Jane and her family our deepest condolences.
Just know that we’re here, standing behind you, and that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincere condolences Jane to you and your family.
Jane–
big hugs from the Pacific NW. Not much else to say but we miss you and hope things go as well as they can.
Jane, my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
I know it is small comfort, but I believe that true existence begins once we leave the time-bubble. Eternity is the true reality; this life is but a larval stage.
Jane- I lost my mother at the age of 17 and am now in my forties and still miss her.
So from the bottom of my heart, you have my deepest sympathy.
dear jane i’m deeply sorry for your loss of your beloved mother. may the lord give you the strength to cope with such a great loss. know that all of your fans here at FDL are with you in this time of sorrow. i pray that god will give you peace at this time. juslin a new fan
Heartfelt condolences to you and your family, Jane.
I’m sorry for your loss, Jane.
Jane – I’m very sorry for your loss.
My condolences go out to Jane and her family.
My very deepest sympathies.
My deepest sympathy and a big cyberhug to Jane and her family.
Jane, I’m sorry to hear about your loss. But you can rest assured your mom is in a much better place. God bless you and your family.
Jane, so sorry on your mom’s passing. I hope you can feel the love expressed in all the replies here – you are treasured.
As a parent, as a child, and as a sibling:
The voices of those we love and miss are always around us. Listen to the good, and forget the bad. Live for yourself and see that their/your joy doesn’t go out of the world.
Peace be with you.
My deepest sympathy, Jane. I hope you can find solace in knowing that your grief is shared. Your mom’s suffering is over, and you have a lifetime of good memories, including the knowledge that she’s proud of you.
A long-time lurker offers you sympathy on your sad loss, Jane. I lost my mom 15 years ago and still want to pick up the phone and call her sometimes. I am so sad for you, but I know from experience that the memories of love and laughter will someday assert themselves as a healing force. To this day we fondly remark on my mom’s malapropisms, odd turns of expression, and kind-hearted ways.
Wishing you peace.
My thoughts are with you.
I am so very sorry. My condolences to you and your family, and may you all find peace and comfort in each other.
Jane – you’ll always be her baby girl.
Silent tears.
Hearts and flowers to you and your sis.
I’m sorry about your loss.
Peace…
I am so very sorry for your trouble. Thoughts and prayers.
So sorry, Jane. Your mother will still be with you every day of your life, and some day, that will be almost enough. Love and peace to you and your family.
Peace, Jane.
And remember, your vitality and strength is a tribute to your mother, always has been and always will be.
Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
For those whom thou think’st thou dost overthrow,
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
From rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be,
Much pleasure; then from thee much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee do go,
Rest of their bones, and soul’s delivery.
Thou art slave to fate, chance, kings, and desperate men,
And dost with poison, war, and sickness dwell;
And poppy or charms can make us sleep as well
And better than thy stroke; why swell’st thou then?
One short sleep past, we wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die.
My condolences, Jane.
So sorry to hear this news, Jane. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
My condolences Jane. Have strength and know
that you have friends far and wide.
Jane,
I’m so sorry. My mom is 84 and holding up, but it can’t be long. Any news like yours just rips me up.
We’re all with you.
Dear Jane,
Sorry to hear the news. You loved her and she loved you and you both expressed and showed it.
No regrets…
Jane, I’m so sorry about your Mom. I know this is hard, but hang in there. You have many friends who support you.
Condolences to Jane and her family.
‘We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when
But I’m sure we’ll meet again some sunny day’
:-(
Sincerest condolences. As your intelligence and compassion demonstrate…..your mother must have been a great lady!
Dear Jane, I’m so sorry.
You and your sister have just lived through the hardest thing you will ever face and need never fear this day again. With your help, your dear mother has come to peace at last. Bless all three of you.
Before long, the images of these last hard days will give way to much earlier and happier ones, and at some point, only the good will come unbidden.
I hope you two rest well tonight, knowing you did all you could to make your mom safe and comfortable.
We all treasure and thank you, and if we could take some of this for you, we would.
Peace to you and your sister,
Jan Goodrich/lotus
Oh Jane, I am so terribly, terribly sorry. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
- 4lg
I am so, so sorry. My deepest sympathies to Jane and her family.
Message from an old lurker…
From someone who lost their father to a sudden heart attack in 1997, I understand what you are going through right now, even if I can offer little comfort but a virtual hug…
Jane, you are your mother’s daughter….she is with you always….now you just cannot see her…but she will be there. Trust me!
The above poem “Death, be Not Proud” is by John Donne.
Jane,
Much love to you and your family. Much sorrow for your loss.
May you rest on the wings of the love and prayers of this incredible FDL community you created. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Kate
I am so sorry Jane. My prayers are with you and your family, and I hope you get through this as well as possible.
I am a stranger to you, but you are like family to me. I mourn your loss.
i’m so sorry to hear this. anything i type would be trite. just know you’re in our thoughts jane.
Many condolences to you and your family, Jane.
My condolences to you and your family as well Jane.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Jane.
my condolences jane, god bless you and your family
I’m very sorry to hear this and hope Jane and the rest of the family are as well as possible. Nothing you say at times like this seems adequate to the situation but know that our thougts are with you.
my heart goes out to you and your family
Expected or unexpected, it’s always a heavy blow. Peace to you and yours. Blessings and safe journey to your mother.
My most heartfelt condolences -
Dee
good memories and a cup of tea
Jane condolences to you and your family.
May your mother rest in peace.
There is a sacredness in tears.
They are not the mark of weakness,
but of power.
They speak more eloquently
than 10,000 tongues.
They are the messengers
of overwhelming grief,
of deep contrition,
and of unspeakable love. – Washington Irving
Jane, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Mother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
To die proud of your child is the best one could hope for. To know your mother admired you, should make the passing less bitter. My condolences.
My Cousin was buried yesterday. In his online memorial, I quoted a little Oliver Wendell Holmes’ Chambered Nautilus
Build thee more stately mansions, O my soul,
As the swift seasons roll!
Leave thy low-vaulted past!
Let each new temple, nobler than the last,
Shut thee from heaven with a dome more vast,
Till thou at length art free, Leaving thine outgrown shell by life’s unresting sea.
I think these lines would apply to your mom, as well… adding to it the line which introduces the couplets:
While on mine ear it rings,
Through the deep caves of thought I hear a voice that sings: –
http://rpo.library.utoronto.ca/poem/1025.html
Those lines apply to both of you, I think. Your work and passion for it is her legacy and our boon.
Jane, I’m so sorry to read of your loss. I always tell me children that no matter what, my love is always with them. Love never dies, it becomes more poignant. May you always feel your mother’s love around you like a blanket, especially in these loneliest days of all.
God bless you, Jane.
There aren’t any words that can really help much, Jane, but the girl she raised – you – is testimony to very much that was wonderful in her. This is obvious even though I’ve never met either of you. No one will ever love us like our mothers do, and I still miss mine after more than 2 years. But consciously to try to be more like the example they set and the persons they envisioned we could be, and on some level are, are what make them live on in more than just memory. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Peace to Jane and her family.
Jane,
You’re in my thoughts.
No one’s death comes to pass without making some impression, and those close to the deceased inherit part of the liberated soul and become richer in their humaneness. – Hermann Broch –
Jane – My thoughts are with you and your family. I lost my mother last October. Our time with them is too short; I just feel lucky to have had such a beautiful person in my life and I am sure you feel the same.
I saw this poem on Kos last year, before my mom died, and appreciated it even more afterwards.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there,
I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight
On the ripened grain.
I am the gentle Autumn’s rain.
When you awaken in the morning hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there.
I did not die.
My Spirit is still alive…
Jane, deepest sympathy to you and your family. Our hearts go out to you.
Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. May the memories of your good times together sustain you through this difficult period.
Jeralyn
Deepest sympathy to you and your family, Jane.
Never born, never died, just visited us all for a while. Always remember we are spirtual beings.
Dear Jane,
Our thoughts are with you in this time of sadness. I lost my mother a few years back on Christmas Eve. Now the Solstice will always have another meaning for you. It is the day of the most light. A friend who knows quantum physics says that when we die the energy trapped inside of us, that thing that makes us capable of love, escapes and accelerates to the speed of light so it is everywhere, at once, all the time, forever. There is no light like that in a Mother’s eyes. That light will always be there and will shine on you everyday and next year you will have her light for the longest day of the year. She must have loved you very much to want you to see as much as possible. I’m sure she is very proud of you.
Please be gentle with yourself.
billy
a candle will be lit in her honor. a rose will be blessed. a bird will be heard chirping. in it’s nest lies an egg. waiting to hatch. waiting to sing. waiting to fly.
Jane,
I am so very sorry for your loss and I wish I could take your pain away. She lives on through you Jane, and she will be watching over you every day.
I am very saddened to learn of your loss.
Words are insignificant at this time especially from strangers.
Yet, as time continues it’s stream our focus ,even on the trivial,such as, notes from strangers returns.
May your mother live forever in your heart and may you live a long life because it isn’t hard for this stranger to know we need you here.
My deepest sympathy to your family, Jane! May your mother rest in peace.
I am so sorry for your loss, Jane.
I hope that the pain of it passes quickly leaving only the loving memories of your mother behind.
Peace.
I am so sorry. Please know that our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
Deepest condolences to you and your family.
Jane,
I’m sorry for you and your family’s loss.
Oh no, Jane. Your mother must have been a remarkable woman.
It is the unseen which governs the seen, and everything we do here echoes on in matter and in spirit.
Jane,
At a time like this words can seem inadequate but still I add my words of sympathy to all the others, and a wish that all your wonderful memories of your mom will lift your spirits beyond this sorrow.
Jane,
I am very sorry for your loss.
Jane,
Sending our thoughts and sympathy. Your mother must have been immensely proud of you, and her spirit will always be with you and watch over you.
Jen
Jane, I am so sorry. My Dad died last year, and it hurts a lot, but he left me a lot, too. Big hug.
I would do anything to help you, but I know there is nothing I can do.
I can, though, assure you that everyone will be here when you return, no matter how long that might be. So you should take your time in returning – come back to us as slowly or as quickly as seems right to you.
Amen to all of the humanity and compassion above.
Jane. please accept my most sincere condolences to you and your family. Do take good care of yourselves; breathe, eat, and most important – rest.
It can be a big blow, this loss. Take whatever time and do everything you need to stand tall again. Your mother must be very proud of you, and resides inside your heart now. You can still talk to her, anytime.
Sending you a warm, loving cyber-hug.
13 years ago on this day my mother died from breast cancer, and I miss her everyday. Following your journey over the past several days has reconnected me with feelings about my own loss, and that of my family. My condolences, and may the caring of this wonderful community you’ve created, and the strength of your own spirituality carry you through these painful times.
I’ve been a lurker for the past 8 months, and have been moved two join in on several occasions, but I’m blind and the Assistive Technology I use to work with computers wasn’t getting along with the comments form. I hope these thoughts get through to you.
Moderator comment: I emailed bat to let him know that his comment had gotten through. He responded and there is an update at http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..ent-155710
Jane – just know that she loved you – and wherever she is now, she still does, and continues to wish only for the happiness of her children. That’s what mothers do.
Be good to you.
Peace, Love, as well as heartfelt condolances.
Regards, Jim Clausen
Jane,
My deepest condolances on your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family
Peace and love to you and yours, Jane.
Jane,
I have been away from the computer most of today. I just this moment checked in. I wish I could tell you how sorry I am.
My father died when I was in college. I remember my mother telling me that if anything happened to her, it was my job to raise my sisters; I am the oldest. I could not imagine life without my mother, nor picture taking on her role as matriarch.
I still live in terror of losing my mother even though all of my little sisters are now grown, married women with children of their own. She is our polestar.
I am crying as I type this, and I am not much of a weeper. I take some small comfort, and I hope you will as well, in knowing that you were with her and I know that meant so much to her. How do I know? I am the mother of a daughter.
I will have you in my thoughts and prayers.
So very sorry, Jane – to you and to your family, my condolences. I hope your Mom’s end was peaceful; from what you wrote the other day, your being there with her could only have made it easier.
Jane,
Please know our hearts and minds are with you in your time of sorrow. I hope you quickly find peace with all that has taken place.
My own mother was diagnosed with cancer about a month ago. I am dreading going through what you face today but I know it is a part of life and I have to cherish every moment of every day with her even more from now on.
I am sending a big hug and good karma your way. Being there for her in her time of need earns you big karma points in my book.
Peace,
Anna
jane,
even though it seems like she is gone your mom is never further away than a thought. i wish you the best in dealing.
Jane,
My heart goes out to you.
Peace
Gary
I have never posted here before, although I lurk frequently, and enjoy everything I read. I also enjoyed watching you guys at YearlyKos.
But today, with the sad news about Jane’s Mom I felt compelled to post and express my condolences. I wish Jane and her family the best as they go through this very difficult time.
Jane, I know I’ve been EPU’d a long time ago, but I just want to say that watching the person who brought us into life leave it is one of the hardest things in the human condition. The Russians have a beautiful hymn, “Eternal Memory”. Eternal Memory to your mother and peace to you and your family.
(Sigh…)
Very sorry to learn of this. Take that Galveston cruise, anyway, Jane, you and your sister and all.
Condolences from Chicago…
Big warm hug to Jane in her time of need
“…Democrats are for people, Republicans are for things…” – Oilfieldguy
My condolences to you and your family. It’s never easy to see loved ones pass away.
Jane and Family,
Sending an X
Sending an O
Sending a prayer out on the ether, knowing it will be caught on the other side.
My deepest sympathy…
Joe
Jane -
Having been there,I know how limited words are right now. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family. And be sure of this: you are a credit to your mother.
With deepest sympathy,
tengrain
I’m so sorry for you loss, Jane.
You and your dear Mother eternally remain in each others heart. May love bring you comfort Jane.
Redd’s post made me cry, so does the thread
Love and hugs Jane
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matt. 5:4)
I’m just a lurker here, but I feel almost like I know you through reading your thoughts and feelings for so long. Please take as much time as you need, just know that you will be missed, and the thoughts and prayers of many people are with you.
Jane,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Sincerely,
Jim Ferguson
Seattle
Jane: our deepest sympathies for you and your family. Your mother taught you well. Perhaps a little ee cummings might be in order.
I’d rather learn from one bird how to sing
than teach ten thousand stars how not to dance
Jane, I cannot comment cogently because I did not know your mother and I don’t know you, except through your writing. Yet I do know that being surrounded by people who truly care about you and your welfare eases the pain of this burden. It is my sincere hope that you are able to look back on this amazing list of heartfelt condolences in the coming days and it eases your pain somewhat. May it be an everlasting bouquet of thoughts and feelings that never withers and always remains fragrant to you. Peace.
I’m so sorry to hear this. Christy, If you or anyone here knows Jane’s mother’s name, I’ll include a dedication for her tomorrow in our morning service at the zen center in LA.
George/Mukei
I just got in and read this. My hat is in my hand and I’m standing on one foot and then the other. A shadow covers all the pieces of my broken heart. I want to come to you, and just be there for you.
Heartfelt condolences, Jane. I selfishly hope that one of my favorite writers gets back in the saddle soon — but take your time, please — I know the wait will be worth it.
Jane – my sincere condolences. No matter how old one’s mother is, no matter what the circumstances are – a mother’s loss is always a time of sorrow. My mother passed away in 1978 – she was only 44 and was near death for the last five years of her life! In spite of knowing this, I was devastated and couldn’t concentrate on anything and had to drop my courses (I was in grad school). May the almighty be with you in this time of sorrow.
I can’t move on at FDL tonite, I am so sad for Jane and amazed at the love and peace here on this precious thread. Maybe later.
Christy, I know you are in pain too, and I want you to know we are here for you. ;(
“The afternoon knows what the morning never
suspected.” Swedish proverb
Jane, sorry to hear about your mom.
Leaving is so difficult.
May she rest in peace.
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Jack
Dear Jane,
We are so sad to hear of your mother’s passing.
Heartfelt sympathy to you and yours, from the glc family.
xo,
glc
Losing a parent is one of the most difficult things we ever face in life. I know it had to be a comfort to be there when she passed…I know how grateful I am that I was able to be there when my father passed away a few years ago.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Please take the time you need to heal…my deepest sympathies to you.
I don’t usually comment, I’m more of a drive by reader, but I wanted to add my name to those wishing you and your family the best. God bless.
So sorry. Courage.
With sincere sympathy to you and your family. From what I can see, she must have been an amazing woman, she has most certainly helped make this world a better one. Bless her.
Please add my condolences to this outpouring, Jane.
And thank you, Christy, for reminding us to hold our own beloved ones a little closer to honor Jane.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Jane.
Right before my mother died, in a moment of lucidity I had not seen from her in months, she looked at me and said, “I knew you before you were born and now you’ll know me in ways you never imagined.” At the time, I had no idea what she was talking about. But, 27 years later, it all makes sense.
xoxoxo
Jane, my deep condolences to your and you sister.
My parents passed away within two years of each other after 60 years together, so I, too, know the deep pain you are feeling now. Time makes it more bearable, mellowing the physical pain and allowing one to join society again. So discocerting for others when one bursts into tears for no discernable reason, you know.
Patricia
Reading the comments here is further confirmation that the FDL community is unique. I join everyone else in expressing sympathy to Jane and her family.
My condolences, Jane.
Thank you for all that you do. You and your mother surely must have taken great pride in one another. Even from this distance I know, because of having read over time what you’ve written on this blog, that your mother raised a very special person. So I’m certain that she was very special also.
Progressives everywhere share your sorrow!
Jane,
I am so sorry.
I will looking up for A new star in the sky tonight.
Peace
Jane, the day my mom passed away we had a houseful of neighbors (she died at home, with hospice care – bless all the zennurses in our world) and no food. I went to the grocery store in my state of shock. Standing in line, ladies chattering away all around me, all I could think was “STOP! JUST STOP THE WORLD! DON’T YOU KNOW WHAT JUST HAPPENED?” My prayer for you is to have the world stop, just for a moment.
At my mom’s memorial service, Rev. Bradley (George Regas’s successor) told the story of my mom’s decision that spiders would always be protected in our house, due to something she’d read years earlier about a mamma spider who, when she and her babies were dropped into a bottle of formaldehide in the spirit of scientific inquiry, gathered all her babies to her as they drifted to the bottom. On the first anniversary of her death I was sad after talking to my sibs and dad. I picked up a book by Jeffrey Massour about animal emotions and opened it randomly…
…to the story of the mamma spider. I laughed; I cried. Mamma was still watching over her babies.
Namaste, Jane. Luke sends his love.
The devastation is raw now, Jane but interspersed inside the pain will be memories of sheer joy. May those linger longer each day. Can’t wait to read your words again.
Jane my condolences for your lost. Words can’t express the sorrow. But I was told this and I promised I’d past it on. Your Mom is aways with you God gave us pictures to keep them with us. Close your eyes and remember the fun and goodtimes then smile she’ll always be with you. You are apart of her and she is a part of you always.
No words. Just an aching heart, arms to embrace, and hands to wipe away tears. If you need them.
Time will heal, but never replace. We weep with you.
Jane, So sorry to hear about your loss. May you and your loved ones find the strength to face this difficult time.
Jane;
Regular reader, never commented. My mother’s death came in 01. Life is never the same. C.S. Lewis describes his mother’s death as being “as if a great continent had sunk beneath the ocean.”
They live in our hearts, as we “internalize” their lives and essence.
This from C. Rossetti:
Remember
REMEMBER me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann’d:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.
Christina Rossetti
I’m so sorry, Jane. Losing a parent is awful. She must have appreciated your being there.
Hugs to you, Jane.
My condolences…
Aloha oe to Jane’s mother. She left us a daughter that she could be proud of. Deepest condolences.
Jane,
It is sad that journey you make through your grief, you will make alone, for that is the way grief passes.
But we will be here with you until you get to the other side.
D
Our (my family’s) thoughts go out to anyone we know that has lost a loved one, and though we don’t really know you, we feel like we do. I don’t know what to say other than we’re thinking of you and your family…
Jane
I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
“When Moses conversed with God, he asked, “Lord where shall I seek you?”
God answered, “Among the brokenhearted.”
Moses continued, “But, Lord, no heart could be more despairing than mine.”
And God replied, “Then I am where you are.”
-Abu’l Fayd Al-Misri
Really sorry to hear about your loss, Jane. Glad at least you were able to be there with your mother at the end. I lost my dad earlier this year – got there too late to be with him. There are no words, but you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.
Jane,
Condolences. Take time to cry a lot. It helps.
Our prayers are with you and your family Jane. I took comfort from knowing that my Dad was no longer suffering, once he passed away.
{{{{ Jane }}}}}
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
I hope that the love of those around you helps to give you the strentgh and hope to carry on now, while you are missing your Mom so very much.
Love is eternal. May it help heal your sorrow.
Jane, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. You do such great work, I know she was proud of you, as we all are.
Jane,
My mom died last Thurs. and was buried this past Mon.
I am still in shock and find it hard not to believe that she will not be calling again and saying Hi Doll, how are you doing?
My sister and I also spent hours at the hospital with each other.
I read your post this morning and I felt so bad for you.
I understand completely what you and your family are going through.
Strength and peace to you and your family
For generations, we have been guided by the lights of stars which may have been dead for millenia.
So, too, is a parent’s influence on one’s life.
You may still set your sails to the light of her memory, and it will always guide you home. And I say this with some experience.
Strength, love, and courage to you in these times of sadness.
–aaw
In paradisum deducant te Angeli; in tuo adventu suscipiant te martyres, et perducant te in civitatem sanctam Ierusalem. Chorus angelorum te suscipiat, et cum Lazaro quondam paupere aeternam habeas requiem.
May you take great comfort in the knowledge that we your readers express our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
I’m not a regular FDL reader but I went there pretty regularly for Plame/Wilson issues as linked to by dkos and atrios. I was amazed by Jane at the convention–her range of knowledge on the issue, her aquaintance with every significant person on the case (with the exception of the right wing nutjobs), her passion for political journalism, her humility about her role, and her stunning beauty.
I went to FDL this morning following the link from kos regarding his control of the entire world via TNR. It was there I learned that Jane’s mom was ill. Reading this diary saddens me.
But I think about Jane’s mom’s legacy. So many of us want to leave something good and lasting behind when we die. Jane has played a pivotal role in exposing a huge story which became the tip of the iceberg. Her mother can rest easy knowing she’s raised a remarkable daughter who has made a significant impact in exposing the corruption of this unjust administration. She can be proud of her legacy.
My prayers are with the entire family.
I am 62. When my mother died 9 years ago, the center went out of my life. I always figured where I was in relationship to where she was, which was “home”.
The grief I felt was so great it embarrassed me because I felt I was experiencing real pain for the first time and that I had in the past taken too lightly the grief of others when they lost family.
I am sorry for your loss.
Condolences to Jane and all her loved ones in this time of grief. A blanket of thoughts of comfort and kinship is on its way from our household to yours.
my condolences Jane to you and your family.
Deeply regret your loss. Strength and comfort to you and yours.
jerry hill
Your mother will live on in you, Jane. May the love of the countless friends you’ve made here console you in your grieving.
I am a frequent visitor here, but have not posted before. I am very sorry to hear of Jane’s mother death. It is incredibly difficult to lose anyone close, but your mom is the toughest. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
on a day that i found out that my cancer has come back 6-22-06 i still fell blessed about my loved ones,my wife and two boys and know how much family means.sorry about your mother passing but wanted to let you know what a great job you do . take care giles lucey
I’m so sorry to hear such sad news. Love and Light to you and your family tonight.
No one gets EPU’d on this thread, Jane. It just keeps going . . . like the love of a parent for a child.
Jane,
My deepest sympathy to you and your entire family for you loss today.
Jane
I’m so sorry for your loss. My family sneds their deepest sympathies. Take care.
I’m sorry that you lost so much.
Stephen
I’m very sorry, Jane. I lost my father in 1997 – it’s hard. I’m sure you were a fantastic daughter to her.
I’m so very sorry for your loss of your mother. Please accept my deepest condolences from an appreciative regular lurker.
Forgive me if someone has posted this excerpt from Jane Kenyon’s “Twilight: After Haying.” It has comforted me through several deaths.
Yes, long shadows go out
from the bales, and yes, the soul
must part from the body:
What else could it do?
……..
These things happen…the soul’s bliss
and suffering are bound together
like the grasses…
The last sweet exhalations
of timothy and vetch
go out with the song of the bird;
the ravaged field
grows wet with dew.
Condolences and peace.
Aw, Jane, I’m so very, very sorry to read of this sorrow you now have. I know the depths of pain that losing your mother can cause.
I’m sending my Buddhist prayers for your mother’s enlightenment and your eased recovery from this grief. And will continue to do so.
“Charity is in the heart of man, and righteousness in the path of men. Pity the man who has lost his path and does not follow it and who has lost his heart and does not know how to recover it. When people’s dogs and chicks are lost they go out and look for them and yet the people who have lost their hearts do not go out and look for them. The principle of self-cultivation consists in nothing but trying to look for the lost heart.” — Mencius (4th century B.C.)
The poet e.e. cummings once described Heaven as… “a keen city, which no one’s ever visited, where always it spring, and everyone’s in love, and flowers pick themselves.”
May God bless your mother.
jhf
Jane,
Our most sincere condolences to you and yours,
Tom and Dar Michalik
West Chicago, Illinois
Books that helped me the most after my Dad:
For all the heavy emotional whiplash: Good Grief
And for the utter unfairness of it all: C. S. Lewis’ A Grief Observed
Believe me I read everything to figure out why God was being so cruel to me, to take away my beloved parent. Healing comes slowly, and with frequent and surprising lapses into total sadness and anger.
Offered with love for Jane and her sister.
Jane,
My sincerest sympathies in your great loss. Our prayers are with you in your sorrow and grieving. Life is so precious and so fragile. You are such a credit to your mother. You are her gift to us and to the world, and for that we are grateful to her beyond words.
From The Diamond Sutra, translated by A.F. Price:
Thus shall ye think of all this fleeting world:
A star at dawn, a bubble in a stream;
A flash of lightning in a summer cloud,
A flickering lamp, a phantom, and a dream.
Jane,
I don’t know what to say to you. Words seem inadequate to the task to expressing how deeply sorry I am for your loss.
Right now, I am sure there is a hole in your heart where your your life with your mother has lived.
Thankfully, this whole fills up with the joy of your memories of her, the sound of her voice when you hear yourself saying something she said, the way she looked when she smiled at you, silly moments from when you were little that are now special and treasured.
Thankfully, we heal.
Give yourself time, and you will heal, too.
And if there’s a heaven, I hope my parents meet your Mom for a great cocktail at swanky bar. I think they’d like each other.
God bless and take good care of yourself, Jane. Prayers and light from my family to yours.
Another daily lurker here. I’m so very sorry for your loss, Jane; my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please take good care, and know that all of us are thinking of you.
Dear Jane,
I’ve been a frequent visitor the last 7 months but have never posted before. You have enlightened so much in that time that I feel your pain. I lost my mother when I was 19. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Hi Jane,
I had always hoped to meet you and your dogs walking on the beach, for I feel I know you through your wonderful writings. My heart breaks for you….it is so tough to lose your Mom.
Dear Jane,
I pray that you find comfort and strength to carry you through your loss.
if you and your sister are anything like me, there’s almost nothing right now that can console. may you find that consolation, more and more, as days go by.
much love to you.
Jane, I am sorry for your loss.
Jane, I’m new to this site, but I thought I’d let you know how sorry I am to hear this.
Dear Jane,
My heartfelt condolences for you in your time of loss.
I lost my father in March after a long illness. After taking care of him for nearly two years, I had almost forgotten how much he gave ME every day, how much he still cared for me and was my Dad even as I ministered to him. His absence is a tangible presence.
Jane, I’m so sorry for your loss. Admiring you and your work from afar, I can only imagine how proud your mother must have been of you. I hope it is some comfort to know how many of us feel your loss with you and wish comfort and healing upon you and your family as you grieve.
Jane
May sorrow be the swiftest of flyers and comfort find you.
Spiderpaws
I am so sorry for your loss Jane. I am grateful to your mother for raising you. This website and others like it give me hope for this country of ours. Loss is always hardest on the ones left behind.
Jane -
My heart goes out to you and your sister. I can’t find the words to describe losing a parent…so wish there were no reason to have tried.
I hope you take all the time you need for you – however long.
kirk
kirk
Please accept my deepest condolences. I have made your blog one of my “Daily Dozen’, (I even sneak-a-peek at work!). I lost my own mother to cancer some years ago. My deepest sympathies are witrh you and yours.
Jane,
My condolences to you and your family.
This comments thread is a golden one and it weaves a fabric of love.
I am so moved and proud to be apart of your firedog family.
loosetooth.
So sorry for you loss Jane. You honor her memory with the wonderful things you do.
giles lucey -
i wish for you and your family that today’s news had never arrived.
i hope all the future news is good, for you and your family.
Dear Jane and family,
May her memory be a blessing for generations. 3 weeks ago, I lost my sister to ovarian cancer after a brave fight of 5 years. Loss is never easy, but I find solace in knowing how many people she touched, and will continue to touch, as the memories and the stories, the photos and the philosophies, get passed along by those who loved her.
In deep sorrow, a word or a touch can mean so much, as volumes are written in tears. May your grief give way to joy again.
Condolences.
I want to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss.
There are no words to comfort you enough now, but I do pray that God collects you in arms of LOVE and holds you tightly as you grieve.
MUCH, MUCH LOVE TO YOU!
Condolences to you and family, Jane.
And let your mother’s spirit continue to live on in the great work that you do here.
I wish you and your family peace.
Jane, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I’m sending along my favorite prayer.
A Prayer of St Francis
Make me an instrument of thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, pardon.
Where there is discord, vision.
Where there is doubt, faith.
Where there is despair, hope.
Where there is darkness, light.
Where there is sadness, joy.
Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying
that we are born to eternal life.
Jane – my heartfelt sympathy.
My thought go out to you, I’m glad that at least you were there with her for this. Peace.
giles lucey — AMEN to kirk murphy’s 498.
We are with you too, all of us littermates together, you hear? Call on us and you’ll see.
((((healing))))
Having just lost my mom a week ago today, I have a rough understanding of what Jane is feeling (we all grieve in our own way, of course). I am just so very sorry to hear about her mom’s passing. I know her family will be great comfort, as will her incredible online community.
Peace.
lotus @ 507
Seconded. Family.
Jane, I weep for you, with you.
Hypatia
May your mother’s spirit fly free. May all who love her find peace.
my thoughts are with you and your sister. I’m so sorry.
My deepest condolences to you Jane and your family.
Having lost my mother 10 years ago, I can say that the pain lessens, though never quite leaves, but the memories of her and your lives together stay strong always.
Peace to you and your family.
Very sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I hope you have many wonderful memories of her.
I am so sorry and sad to hear this news.
“So softly death succeeded life in her,
She did but dream of heaven, and she was there.”
-Dryden
So sorry for your loss.
Probably the biggest loss in any woman’s life. My heartfelt sympathies.
:-(
My deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your mother.
Jane:
The proof that what you put out is what you get back, is that here you created this vast community of committed countrymen… and when your darkest personal moment came, look at how many of them genuinely care, as a blood relative or a close friend would. Impressive, as well as comforting.
Remember that, not only as you work out the sadness, but also later, during those moments (and you know you have them) when you get frustrated and say to yourself, “Tell me why I’m DOING this, again?”
Love,
BC
NYC
Aww jeez, I’m sorry Jane.
Please let us know your mother’s favorite charity, so a small donation can be made in her honor.
Jane,
Your writing has become comfort and solace for me…thanking your mother for whatever nurtured your insight and talent. My thoughts are with you…
Sweet Jane, she is never really gone, not really. She will always be with you in the breeze, in Kobe’s eyes, in a long lost button or a wayward note. As time passes, you will find the way to have her near and she will be whole and at her most beautiful and perfect. Her pain is gone, there is no more illness or infirmity, her heart is at peace and she knew it was all right to leave, to let go, because she knew these things, too. You and your family will put one foot in front of another, one day will string into the next and soon you will find that moment when she is whispering to you. She lives on in you in a thousand different ways. It is the deepest mystery I have ever known.
You are surrounded by us at all times, gently and surely as if we were there in person. All blessings for comfort and kindness for you and yours.
Namaste
Tanny
Dear Jane,
My heartfelt sympathies for you on the passing of your Mom.
It is absolutely evident that she “did something right” in this world — raising a woman like you — and I am sure that is only the tip of an iceberg of excellent accomplishments in making the world a better place. She was undoubtedly very proud of you.
Peace be with her,
Prof
Jane,
My deepest sympathies. I cannot imagine life without Mom; I’ve been incredibly lucky to have her as long as I have.
May she rest in peace, and may you remember all the joy and love she so obviously taught you to feel.
Regards,
John
Jane, love to you, your mom and sister. So glad that you were there with her.
My deepest condolences Jane, to you and everyone in your family.
Oh dear … I’m so sorry to hear of your terrible loss, Jane. I lost my mother 4 years ago. This news (once again) brought back a flood of memories and tears. Big *hugs* to you and your family from stranger who cares.
I am so, so sorry. Thinking of you, and hoping you and your family are doing okay. As a regular reader, I appreciate you beyond words. Take your time and know that you are loved by all of us.
Jane, more condolences from strangers. take care of yourself as much as you can, and speaking from experience, you might go through a kind of numb period here as you’re struggling to process and put together the arrangements. Be smarter than I was and let people help you, so you can take a little time to let yourself come to grips.
Jane, welcome to growing up. My mom died suddenly the Saturday before an election I was being paid to win. We lost by 700 votes. That wasn’t half of what bothered me. What bothered me is that my mom KNEW she wasn’t going to be around long. She asked me for a year to come home and see her. I didn’t have time. But I had time to go to her funeral.
It’s little consolation at this moment, but at least you got to be by her side. Your being there, whether she obviously knew it or not, was a comfort to her.
They say you never grow up until your parents are gone. I wish growing up was easier than that. If it was, I would have grown up long ago.
Take time and grieve. We all do it differently. You have to do it your own way.
Some of us understand. The ones who don’t will understand someday. But here’s what’s unanimous. We all love you.
Words fail me
For Jane
For your Mom
My heartfelt condolences to Jane and family.
My deepest sympathies to Jane. Thank God she has you, Christy.
Jane, my heart hurts for you and your family today.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
-S
Jane, I’m terribly sorry to hear about your mother. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Jane, I’m so very sorry. Please accept my sincere condolences, and I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers.
Peace,
Lisa Lockwood
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart weeps for you.
Dear Jane,
A little over eight ago, my brother and I, and our families, went through something very similar with our dear mom/grandma.
We took solace in a touching comment made by a friend: “a good life, well-lived.”
I take considerable strength myself from just hearing of your wonderful bond with your mom and your sister. Such ties bring great joy and, perhaps inevitably, greater pain at parting. We hope she was in peace, and that you will take what time you need to rest and recoup.
And brace yourself for when you next make a post. I never saw such wonderful mutual support as is embedded in your wonderful firedoglake group.
Peace.
So sorry Jane. You only have one mom and she is irreplaceable. You have, at least, the comfort of having been with her all the way to the end.
Our hearts are with you.
So sorry Jane.
Hearing of your loss brought back a flood of memories – eleven years ago on this same date I lost my father.
I was going to try to write something affirming and profound, but it looks like all the people above me said what I wanted to say, much more eloquently than I would have said.
I strongly recommend seeing if your local Hospice has a grief or survivor workshop – it is worth attending, even if your mother’s death was not unexpected.
I hope you take comfort at the volume of comments here, and also note how quickly we arrived at that volume.
Dear Jane,
I wish you and your family all the best as you journey through this difficult valley for which there is no guide. My wife’s mother passed at the end of January and I have seen how difficult this period of transition can be, especially between daughters and mothers.
I have gained a deep appreciation of this special bond, which, having seen its continuing endurance in my wife, I can assure you will never leave you and will never perish.
Take Care, and my family’s prayers are with you.
JJR
Dearest Jane, I am sad for your great loss but I don’t believe in death – it is just a transition to another plane. Your mother is in peace and her spirit will continue to radiate down upon you, because that is what mother’s do. We are sisters in pain – two of my nephews were murdered on February 21st in Mesa and my family is reeling from the brutal way in which they were taken from us. I put this quote on a website I created to try and give some comfort to their surviving siblings:
Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there.I do not sleep.I am the thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am sunlight on ripened grain.I am the gentle autumn rain. When you waken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift uplifting rush. Of gentle birds in circling flight.I am the star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there. I did not die.
God bless you and hold you in his arms during this difficult time.
Shauna
Our love goes out to others here who have experienced losses or terrible news: diane and NTodd whose mothers died within the last week, giles lucey whose cancer is back, a poster–sorry i couldn’t locate your comment/name–whose child would have been 14 today or yesterday, Mike whose cousin was buried yesterday, all who lost loved ones prematurely, yes it is UNFAIR.
The depth of your grief is a measure of the bond of your love. If you didn’t care, you wouldn’t grieve.
May you find peace and comfort in your sorrow.
My deepest condolences, Jane.
Jane,
I recently watched the video of The Tibetan Book of the Dead (available through netflix) because of my own mother’s coming demise (she’s 95). It helped me somehow deal with what is coming to us all eventually. Take care, and give lots of hugs to your dogs when you get back to Oregon.
Do not look back and think of things you should have done….love is all absolving.
Jane, my condolences to you and your family.
Peace be with you.
I’m sorry, Jane.
m.
Jane-
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy
Jane: Your mother must have been a great woman to raise a daughter like you. I am not talking about being smart. Anybody can be smart. I am talking about your courage to see things as they are and to tell it like it is.
May time heal your sorrow.
All my love Jane.
My mother died 18 months ago. I still find myself talking to her, especially when my kids do something I want to share with her.
I lost my mom 52 days ago. It’s not easy but remembering the goodness sure helps. God bless
Jane, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how much she meant to you; and how proud of you she obviously was.
Please be well and give yourself time to grieve. The blogosphere can take care of itself.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Sending you light and love
my deepest condolences
Jane,
You are in my thoughts — so sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry. Please take care of yourself. You are a treasured soul to many of us.
There are no lurkers here tonight. Comment 557.
We all have been connected to you as our line to sanity through your brilliant and thought filled writing, and we want to connect to you in your grief, too.
I echo two previous commenters. I think you’d better consider taking that cruise you’d booked with her. She will be with you, making sure you rest and recuperate and forget all about the insanity around you.
Besides, maybe Fitz is too shy to indict Cheney with you watching.
So be whole. Be loved. We are here and happy to wait for your return.
Oh, Jane. Oh, no. Peace and love and light to you and your sister–and, of course, your mom. Take good care….
Jane, I’m so sorry.
Oh, Jane, I’m so sorry. My own mother is dying. My heart goes out to you and your family. I know your mother’s spirit lives in you. God be with you and yours.
Jane, upon my first post, I extend to you and your family my deepest sympathy. Godspeed.
Jane, we send our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thought are with you.
Jane, the loss of a parent, whether expected or not, is still a shock.
I wish you and your family courage, strength, and serenity in the days and months ahead.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jane:
I, unfortunately, do understand some of what you are experiencing now, as both of my parents recently died. For me, it is like yesterday, and as I write this, tears are flowing down my face. There is nothing I can say now to ease your unbearable pain, shock and grief. But, I did learn something after having experienced this, and should you ever wish a private, personal exchange, please send to the email address for our website and I will contact you. My thoughts are with you.
Jane, my most sincere condolences. I hope all our small words combined can serve to give you strength in the coming days.
Halfway across the country I sit
and the tears fall
for strangers
at least as our society defines it
but in grief there are no strangers
there is kinship
the knot settles in the middle of your chest
not knowing how to untangle the knot
scream
cry
sob
freeze
the knot of grief knows no strangers
only fellow humans who have had the knot too
almost smothering at times
but that knot of grief cannot smother you
as long as there is
love
family
friends
memories
and cling to the reality that
not even death can break the precious bonds mother and daughter share
THE BOND IS ETERNAL-THE LOVE NEVER LEAVES
Jane, my deepest condolences to you and your family.
Peace to all.
Jane, my Mom died January 31, right after I finished watching the SOTU in her room. I like to say bush killed her :) but she died after two years of suffering the after-effects of a stroke.
Literally overnight, she went from perfectly fine to paralysed on her right side, unable to speak, incontinent, etc. She couldnt even use the remote on the tv, never went back to her home, but, the hellish worst of it all was that her mind was fine. She didnt miss a thing, but was trapped and helpless.
I used to take her chocolate and other treats every day, as I am an only child and dad died 20 years ago. I always unwrapped it for her, put it in her hand, and watched her eyes lit up like christmas. But before she took a bite, likely her only pleasure of the day, she always stopped and held it out to me, like I was still a child, and she offered me the first bite. For the last two years of her life, no matter how many times I put candy in her hand, she always offered me the first bite.
I know your mother loved you at least that much.
And I see here, many others love you that much too.
I wish you peace
Jane,
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with your family.
Very sad to hear of your loss, Jane. You are an inspiration.
Yet another long-time reader coming out of the shadows to express my condolences.
May the love expressed here give you strength and comfort in the long days ahead.
-Jenn
Your mother must have been proud of you — she obviously taught you to stand up for what you believe. That ’s a great legacy. And I believe that love is forever, no matter that we are separated from the ones we love and who have loved us.
I hate to admit it by I have been a lurker forever – I have never posted on any site before. And yet, I value FDL and Jane so much I ca’t help but finally break the ice to send my condolences. I send up a prayer for her and her family. Send her love from me.
Steve
When my own father was dying, before he slipped away into a coma, he whispered, “I love you all,” and then began keening some ancient song in a language I’d never heard him speak. It was both eerie and beautiful.
Jane, may flights of angels sing your mother to her rest. She must have been a great woman to have birthed you.
My deepest sympathies. I just hope the love that surrounds you here at FDL can help in some small way.
my condolences, jane, to you and your family.
Condolences from a reader.
Jane, I’m sorry for your loss.
My deepest sympathy at this sad time, Jane.
I read somewhere that mothers satisfy a child’s view of eternity. They’re here before we exist and somehow we think they’ll still be here after we’re gone. Even though we’re adults now, and know this isn’t true, I believe that wherever Moms go when they’ve had to leave us, they’re never far away. And all the love they gave us and memories we have of them are with us forever.
Keeping you in my thoughts, and sending healing energy your way. Peace.
I am very moved by the comments here. I wanted to add a special note and I hope everyone will understand. Bat at 394. Your comment did show up. It was very moving. I hope that you can listen to email at the address you used to log on at fire dog lake. I sent you something. And I hope that even if you are having problems posting comments you are still able to hear and read them.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Huge condolences to Jane and the rest of her family. I lost my mother last November, so I understand what she’s going through.
Very sorry for your loss, Jane. My condolences to you and your family.
Jane,
Just heard; I’m so sorry. Blessings to your dear mother, whose spirit will remain with us, and best love to you and your sister.
jane, i am so sorry to hear of your loss.
it’s difficult for any of us to let go. i lost both my parents last decade, and it is a very trying experience.
if it gives you any solace, rest assured that i think of my parents every day, and know that where ever they are, they are smiling at me and are proud of me.
i am quite sure that your mom is looking down on you with love and pride as well.
pls. let me know if there is anything i can do.
My deepest sympathy. Take time to grieve and heal.
My family sends their deepest condolences to you on the passing of your mother.
I am only a lurker here, but it is one of my favorite places to lurk. I consider you guys one of the best sources.
Take care of yourself and your family in the coming days, and know we are thinking of you.
Joe
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept the condolences of my family to yours.
SteveK: Welcome to the dark side.
I am an orphan now, no mother nor dad in this world.
Yet I can still hear them speak and laugh, when I need help or advice and seek solitude and quiet. I hope for you the same.
Nemaste.
Peace and comfort to you. We always carry those we love in our hearts.
Thinking of you and your family.
So sorry for your loss.
Jane
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you can take some comfort in the fact that you were by her side until the end.
-p
Jane, you have my deepest sympathy and condolences. Many Blessings, and much Love, to you, your mother, your sister, and all your family as you live through this dark, painful moment. You are light, Lady, and goodness; my thoughts and prayers will be with you.
I lurk here daily and admire the wonderful writing you all do. I am sorry that Jane had such a short time with her mom at the very end.
Jane-
Words are insufficient, but I am sorry for your loss.
My condolences to you and your family.
Dearest Jane,
Peace and deepest condolences to you and your family.
Ben.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Jane. My deepest sympathies to you.
Jane,
I am sorry for the loss of your mother. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. You are loved and respected by many.
So sorry, Jane. Words don’t exist that can convey my sympathy for you and your family.
Dear Jane
Please accept my condolences at this sad time. Your mom sure did a great job with you! I am facing aging parents and do not want to have to say goodbye ever but we are all trapped in time. Take your time on coming back — the blogosphere will still be around when you are ready.
Worst feeling in the world… so sorry, and wishing you strength and much love. I went through it just days after 9/11; the whole world was grieving and I didn’t have to feel so alone in my sorrow. I hope that you feel the support of this community.
So sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family.
I am sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jane –
Thoughts and prayers are with you — losing your Mom is so tough. But you’ll find her everywhere — and the memories are so precious.
My Dad always said, “I’ll lay me down and bleed awhile, then rise and fight again.”
Take your time — and we’ll all hold the fort until you’re back with us.
Jane,
“I will never leave you, nor forsake you” Hebrews 13:5-6
These words came spontaneously out of my spirit the minute my father passed away – December 31, 1999. I could not bear the thought of my Dad being alone in that moment and when that passage (that I didn’t even know I knew) hit me, I knew he would be OK – the almighty would be with him – in his transition and always.
May you find comfort in the times and the love you were privileged to share with your mother. I am so sorry, Jane – this is the most difficult time a daughter ever can go through. God Bless!
Jane,
So very sorry to hear about your mother. I wish you could have had your trip together. Sincere condolences.
Dear Jane,
I’m sorry for your loss.
Dear Jane,
To you and your loved ones, condolences,
virtual hugs, and wishes for strength
in the days to come.
To your mother, the words in latin say
it better than I can: resquiat in pace.
Grieve now, but remember to hold onto the
lovely memories at all times: they are
*important*.
So sorry,
BB
Words cannot express you loss. We offer you our deepest sympathy. Take your time. We will all stay here for you.
Sometimes I go about pitying myself-
When all the time I am being carried
on great winds across the sky
Peace be with you and yours.
Words don’t often help much at times like these, but they’re often all we have to offer. I offer my condolences to you and your family, Jane, and hope that your recollections and memories will all be good.
Between my wife and I, we recently experienced the passing of the last of our parents in February. To know that they lived full lives and no longer were in pain was consolation to us at their time of passing. I wish you and your family the best.
Jane – thank you for providing this place and community. Your gifts honor your mother.
dear Jane
love, prayers and blessings to you and your family
your mother must have been so proud of the amazing woman she raised who inspires us all
take time … take breaths … and know how much we all hold you close
Your gift to others is quite profound, Jane. I hope you have found these postings to be as heartwarming and uplifting as I. Heartfelt sympathy and warm wishes.
You and your family are in my prayers tonight.
Love each other, hug each other, cry together, and then laugh together remembering what a wonderful person she was.
And I know she must have been, as well as being so very, very proud of you.
Hold your parents tenderly for the world will seem a strange and lonely place without them. – attributed to Emily Dickinson
Our condolences.
Peace to you and your family, Jane. We will hold you in our thoughts.
i’m so very sorry, jane. you and your family are in my thoughts.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Your mother will be with you always.
My deepest sympathies are with you and your family.
Condolences.
The goodness of your mother lives on within you, Jane. Each day that you labor to make this world a better place is a living testimonial to those wonderful people who brought you into it.
“Never the spirit was born; the spirit shall cease to be never
Never was time it was not; end and beginning are dreams
Birthless and deathless and changeless,
remaineth the spirit forever
Death hath not touched it at all; dead ‘though the house of it seems…”
The Bhagavad Gita
I’m sorry for your loss. Your mother still lives in your memory, your thoughts, and your actions. I’m sure you will continue to make her proud.
I’m sitting here crying over your loss, Jane. So sorry to hear this …
Deepest sympathies, Jane, and a prayer that God keep your mother, your family, and yourself in holy light always.
My condolences, Jane. I don’t know what else to say, except thank you for doing what you do here.
Oh Jane, that is so terribly sad. What an awful shock. My deepest sympathy for you and the rest of your family.
Jane, my heart goes out to you, deepest condolences.
I’m so sorry Jane, I just found this post. I know we don’t know eachother and I’ve just been around for a short while but I watched you speak at YKOS and think you are so great. I can’t express to you how deeply I feel for your loss. I was with my dad when he died a few years ago and my Gramma a few years before that, I know this kind of loss is devastating. You are in our prayers and my the people that love you wrap their blanket of support around to and keep you through this difficult time.
Sincerely-Michelle (HopeSpringsATurtle)
seconds suin at 620.
Jane, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Ben Folds Five – Magic
from the back of your big brown eyes
i knew you’d be gone as soon as you could
and i hoped you would
we could see that you weren’t yourself
and the lines on your face did tell
it’s just as well
you’d never be yourself again
saw you last night
dance by the light of the moon
stars in your eyes
free from the life that you knew
you’re the magic that holds the sky up from the ground
you’re the breath that blows these cool winds ’round
trading places with an angel now
saw you last night
dance by the light of the moon
stars in your eyes
free from the life that you knew
saw you last night
stars in the sky
smiled in my room
My condolences. May your mother’s spirit be at peace and rest from her life’s works. After all, she raised such a strong woman like you, Jane. And the world is better for it.
I Said a Prayer for you Tonight
That God’s embrace would hold you tight,
That peace and rest come with the night.
I prayed He’d give you strength to face the long days,
And for friends to ease any burdens come your ways.
I prayed He’d be with you, sister and other,
As the mornings wore on one from another.
I Said a Prayer for you Tonight
That Comfort and Blessings come your way,
That God’s Loving Care finds you each day.
- Jon
Although there is so little one can do or say to ease the pain and sorrow, please let it help to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Jon
Jane –
Thank you for all you have done and keep doing, and know that I and my family will be thinking of you.
jane,
sincere heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
So sorry, Jane. My prayers are with you and your family.
SHE lives on in the daughters she leaves and in some sense in this community of wonderful people that her daughter has been so instrumental in bringing together. Jane, you will find her again, in both quiet and glorious ways, for the rest of your life. And she will find you. Be at peace.
Jane,
I’m so sorry to hear this news. Allow yourself to breathe, grieve and let go to purely feel that ache for as long as you need to.
While your mind races with all that needs to be done in such a horribly sad time, remember to take care of yourself as well.
Time can and does heal, but there really aren’t words anyone can say that can soothe that pounding pain now.
My condolences, Jane. Thanks for all you do here.
My deepest sympathies go to you and yours.
Jane My soul and heart crys for your loss. I’m 61 and I lost my Mommy/Mom over 17 years ago and I still think of her every dad and of course miss her terribly. It took a few years for me to realize that when she left me she took my childood with her. I no longer have her memories of who I was as a baby and child. This is why it is so uniquely difficult to loose a Parent!
You are in my thoughts this morning, Jane.
My deepest condolences, Jane.
Jane. hope it helps to know there are so many of us who share your passion and your grief. we will be here in good times and in bad. take your time. heal a little. we can wait.
Jane
My heart weeps with yours and your family’s. The death of my father last September is still raw.
love joy peace
Jane, my heart goes out to you.
I’m glad you were able to be with her – wish I could have been with my parents when they died.
You are in the thoughts and prayers of so many here.
Jane,
I am sorry for your loss.
AMF
Jane, your Mother made a very important contribution to society in my opinion. She had you, raised you and made you who you are. I appreciate her hard work daily when I read your work. I’m sorry for your loss. Look how many people care! liz~
My condolences.
My own mother told me not long ago: A mother can have a special relationship with each of her sons, but there is nothing like the one between a mother and her daughter. I truly believe that. My deepest sympathy to you, Jane and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mes sympathies ma chere Jane.
Jane,My deepest condolences for your loss. You’re in my thoughts and in my prayers.Rob
Our deepest sympathies and a huge hug to you and yours, Jane. Know that your mom is still with you, and loves you and doesn’t want you to hurt any more than necessary; she will always be with you.
Morning Jane _ just heard this read by Garrison Keillor on the Writer’s Almanac – a poem by Percy Shelley
To Jane: The Keen Stars Were Twinkling
The keen stars were twinkling,
And the fair moon was rising among them,
Dear Jane!
The guitar was tinkling,
But the notes were not sweet till you sung them
Again.
As the moon’s soft splendour
O’er the faint cold starlight of Heaven
Is thrown,
So your voice most tender
To the strings without soul had then given
Its own.
The stars will awaken,
Though the moon sleep a full hour later,
Tonight;
No leaf will be shaken
Whilst the dews of your melody scatter
Delight.
Though the sound overpowers,
Sing again, with your dear voice revealing
A tone
Of some world far from ours,
Where music and moonlight and feeling
Are one.
Was relieved to read you say that your dear mother did not suffer and was peaceful until her passing. Take comfort in knowing this and take care. Missing you,
susan
I know it’s horrible when one’s mother dies. My mom died when I was in sophmore year in college. I failed two of my classes and got D’s in two other that semester. While I was not extremely close to my mother, I know that she loved me the best she could. She had leukemia for over 10 years and was depressed and sick a lot of the time. Life is hard, but I try my hardest not to be lazy, and cave into life’s harshness. Sometimes I succeed. May you find great happiness and fulfillment in your life.
Jane,
Here’s to peace in you and your family. You were there, and as time goes on, you’ll appreciate the importance of that.
Your mother’s spirit will live on in those who loved her. Again, Jane, Peace.
Very sorry about your loss, try to keep your spirit up.
There is no substitute for a loving mother. It is a most devastating lose. My heart goes out to you, Jane.
Grieve as long as you need; it is necessary to recovery.
Julia
Jane,I have a hard to finding the right words so I will say you have my deepest sympathy.
((((hug))))
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. We carry our parents within ourselves forever.
I am forever greatful to your mother for raising you. You have given me some needed hope and clarity during this most depressing epoch of America; your mother must have been damn proud of you.
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I am reminded of the old native American proverb:
“When you were born you cried and the people around you rejoiced. Live your life in such a way that when you die the people around you cry and you rejoice.”
I hope that right now your mom is rejoicing in her life well lived.
So sorry, Jane.
Holding you in the light, as the Quakers say.
Be well.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. May you find peace.
Jane
My thoughts are with you and your family.
best wishes, jane
Condolences, Jane.
My sincere condolences.
blessings on you and yours. it was so stange that i happened upon this from spork. my mother is at her doctor’s as i type this having trouble with breathing. she is 87. i am awaiting word. be well
When my mother passed away in Nov of 2004, her last conscious act was voting against Bush on an absentee ballot. Even though her death came on the eve of the election, I and my brothers all worked on the election to defeat Bush. At her memorial service around the grave we all spoke of her and how wonderful a person and mother she was….and still is in our hearts. My one brother, the lone Republican, spoke of how this would be the first election he would vote Dmocratic. And how proud Mom would have been of that fact. He saw the light and still votes AGAINST these GOP fools.
Bless you Jane and your Mother’s soul. She must have mothered well!
That is very sad news! Take time to share a {hug} and understand that there is an entire community of caring people around you and your family.
Jane,
Very sorry to hear of this news. I hope you and your family find comfort and strength from each other.
Jane,
I lost my Father 2 years ago. It came on quick and then he was gone in 6 weeks.
Right now, I know your loss feels like a crushing weight, and every thought of your mom is like a stab to the heart. I wish I could say something that would make that better today.
All I can offer is what was told to me at the time. You will think of your mom and things that she liked, and it is going to hurt. However, there will come a day when you see something she would have liked, and instead of feeling loss that you can’t share it with you, you will just smile and know that she would have liked it. The loss of her will not be the central thought anymore, and you will be able to appreciate the things she stood for and love again.
I know that seem unlikely now, it sure did to me, but it really is true.
Beyond that, we all have your and your family in our hearts, and always, we have your back.
Hang tough,
B-
Jane,
Sorry to be late on this thread (computer problems), but this humble lurker would also like to express my heartfelt sympathy and condolence to you and your family. Thank you so much for the site and your work.
Jane–You have touched so many of us.
Your mother must have been a special person to have raised someone like you.
You will be in my prayers tonite.
Ron Griswold/aka boiboi
Jane – never posted but lurked for a long time. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family as you go through this difficult time. Take the time you need and we will all still be here when you get back. May you find the peace and strength you will need.
Jane–My deepest condolences to you, your family, and to everyone whose lives your mother touched.
much love and sympathy, jane … like macwrench said, we’ll still be here when you get back. take care of yourself through this time…you have my most sincere condolence.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May God give you strength to grieve and peace to sleep.
Sorry for your loss, Jane. I’d trade you, if I could. The best I can offer is Freddie Mercury:
So, dear friends, your love has gone,
Only tears to dwell upon,
I dare not say as the wind must blow
So a love is lost; a love is won …
Go to sleep and dream again
Soon your hopes will rise and then
From all this gloom, life will start anew
And there’ll be no crying soon …
Queen
“Dear Friends”
(1973)
Dear Jane,
Peace to you and yours. She rests in a far better place and thanks to you we might find ours.
Hi Jane…so sorry for your loss. I lost my mom last year. Everything everyone else has said so elequently, plus my thanks for your work on this site. Somehow, may peace be with you and yours during this diffcult time.
I am so sorry about your mother. Our thoughts are with you.
Jane,
My condolences to you and to all of your family.
As you can see we are all here for you.
So sorry to hear about your loss, Jane. Hang in there, kid.
So sorry. RIP.
I am sorry for your loss- I have much respect for you and your efforts each and every day
To have raised such a wonderful woman, your mother must have been one as well.
Thank you for all that you have done.
Peace for you and your family-
A mother’s passing is a sad, sad time. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
So very sorry. Condolences and hugs to you and yours.
Just read your terribly sad news, Jane. I will light candles for your mother and for you.
For my part, I believe your mother is still very near you–one of the many angels among us, more able to help you now than she could even while she was alive.
Blessings, Jane, and a wish that you feel a strong and steady measure of peace through all the pain this loss brings.
I’m so sorry for you and your family, and your friends and hers.
Dog
My deepest condolences, Jane.
May she rest in peace.
I lost my Mom last year, the day after my birthday.
So sorry to hear of your loss.
Condolences, Jane. A lot of people look up to you, and I’m sure your loss carries great weight with us all.
Sad news. I’m so sorry for your loss, Jane.
Deepest condolences.
Thank you for doing (much) more than your share to protect the next generation. I don’t need to tell you how clear it is that your mother is now, through you, making the future brighter.
My sincere condolences, Jane. I’ll thank your mother in my prayers for raising an itelligent daughter.
Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o’er-fraught heart and bids it break. ~William Shakespeare
Jane, so sorry to hear of your loss. So glad you have such loving memories and a lifetime of countless numbers and kinds of her gifts to you.
Go on the cruise anyway. Smell the sea. Drink your coffee and pretend she’s there sipping beside you. Life is beautiful. Live it all the more in her stead.
That’s a promise I’ve made to the loved ones I’ve lost. It’s one I ask my children to make to me.
My parents are visiting with me from Florida and they are quite old now. I was thinking about how much time I might have left with them last night and then today I saw this. Jane, you have my most sincere condolences. May she remain pure and clear in your memory forever. I’m sure she was a fine person to have produced such a fine daughter.
Most sincere condolences. Yet another reason why middle age sucks. Now is the time we begin to deal with loss in earnest. Much reflection. However, our memories of those passed will be among the sweetest we retain. That is the true nature of things.
My best to you and yours.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Jane. Time doesn’t heal this kind of grief, but it does wear it down to something that’s bearable. And you will keep your Mom with you forever – in the end we are all just the memories and dreams of those we’ve loved.
I’m sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is so tough. Blessing to you and your family.
Janey,
We lost the best in cook in the world. Your Mom was so sweet and she did a wonderful job loving you and your sister (and teaching you her wonderful recipes). I am sad and I wish you strength, acceptance, and the willingness to reach out to those who love you (especially your dogs)
Gav…
I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is hard. Blessing to you and your family
Over the years I have read many poems about death. Yet no words have moved me like these from a Wendell Berry poem: “We are what we have lost.” You are your mother Jane. Honor her by going forward and continuing with your heart and soul to do the good work that she taught you how to do.
Dear Jane,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I still haven’t recovered from losing my father 5 years ago. It was like losing a lung, like being violently uprooted from my native soil and then being set adrift on the ocean. When my grandmother died 3 months before he did, my aunt said, “I don’t know how to live in a world that doesn’t have my mother.” I didn’t understand her at the time, but 3 months later I did. There is just nothing like losing a parent. I’m grateful for your sake that you could be with her. She must have been very special to produce loving children, especially one with a heart as big as yours.
Jane, my deepest condolences to you. May the memory of your mother give you strength. She certainly raised a fighter. Your loss is our loss.
I add my condolences to the list. Remember that memories are forever.
my deepest sympathies at your loss. many, many people are sending caring thoughts your way.
jane,
it is evident by the integrity, strength, humor and humanity here at FDL that your mother was a particularly special person. through your work at this site, she is an inspiration for me.
may you always feel her hands on your shoulders
i mourn your loss with you.
esme
Jane,
Please accept my condolences to you and your family. I wish you will find some peace soon – I hope there will be better days ahead for you with all the good memories of your mom.
Dave in Okinawa
Condolences, Jane, from another, usually silent, daily visitor here.
I hope that later, at a time you feel ready, in future weeks, you’ll tell your friends here some stories about your mom.
I grew up hearing anecdotes from my parents about my grandfathers, both of whom died while my parents were still children. I loved hearing them. And now I share stories to my 5-yr-old daughter about my brother and sister, my grandmothers, a dear aunt and uncle–all of whom I’ve lost in recent years–and about my mom, who is still alive, but deeply afflicted with alzeimer’s. My little girl loves the stories, and I love being able to bring even these whisps of their personalities to her. It helps. It has really helped me a lot. I think you know your friends here would love to hear “Mom stories” if and whenever you want to share them in future days or weeks.
My thoughts are with you.
-Mike in Ann Arbor
So sorry for your loss, Jane. My mom died 30 years ago, and I still feel the loss. I don’t think one ever recovers from the loss of a mother. You are so lucky that you were able to be with her as she passed. I was not with my mom, and I still grieve over that. When her little sister, my much-loved aunt died 8 years ago, I was sitting at her side holding her hand. I am so thankful that I could be with her.
When I lost my son, some two decades ago, I was inconsolable. It took a while, but I learned to live and love again. These words, from Jackson Browne, helped me carry on. I thought I’d pass them along.
Keep a fire burning in your eye.
Pay attention to the open sky.
You never know what will be coming down.
I don’t remember losing track of you.
You were always dancing in and our of view.
I must have thought you’d always be around.
Always keeping things real by playing the clown.
Now you’re nowhere to be found.
I don’t know what happens when people die.
Can’t seem to grasp it as hard as I try.
It’s like a song I can hear playing right in my ear
That I can’t sing.
I can’t help listening.
And I can’t help feeling stupid standing ’round.
Crying as they ease you down.
’cause I know that you’d rather we were dancing.
Dancing our sorrow away.
(right on dancing)
No matter what fate chooses to play.
(there’s nothing you can do about it anyway)
Just do the steps that you’ve been shown.
By everyone you’ve ever know.
Until the dance becomes your very own.
No matter how close to yours
Another’s steps have grown.
In the end there is one dance you’ll do alone.
Keep a fire for the human race.
Let your prayers go drifting into space.
You never know what will be coming down.
Perhaps a better world is drawing near.
And just as easy, it could all disappear.
Along with whatever meaning you might have found.
Don’t let the uncertainity turn you around
(the world keeps turning around and around)
Go on and make a joyful sound.
Into a dancer you have grown.
Form a seed somebody else has thrown.
Go on ahead and throw some seeds of your own.
And somewhere between the time you arrive
And the time you go
May lie a reason you were alive
But you’ll never know.
Jackson Browne
“For a Dancer”
Jane, look at all the love you have earned here. May that love help ease you sorrow until you are ready to “Go an and make a joyful sound” again.
Jane -
My condolences to you, my thoughts are with you.
I’m another reader who greatly appreciates your work, even though I have almost never commented. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I lost my mother 6-1/2 years ago, and so can empathize with the searing pain that you’re feeling. It recedes, but your love for her will not.
Jane, my deepest condolences for your loss.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Jane — words failed me yesterday, and they fail me still. Reading all of these comments and other threads has left me in tears many times.
While most everyone knows the famous passage, the full text of John Donne’s meditation on the tolling bell is worth reading.
“Devotions upon Emergent Occasions”
http://www.incompetech.com/authors/donne/bell.html
My greatest condolences Jane.
I am sorry for your loss. I hope through any tradition which you embrace that her life may be honored.
Jane–
My deepest sympathies as well. My thoughts are with you, and as evidenced by the number of comments here, tremendous virtual/physical/emotional support. I’m glad you were able to be with your mother at the end. All best wishes to you during this difficult time.
My Condolences, I lost my mother when I was just out of the 3rd grade. I know it is rough now, and it never really does go away — but try to remember the good times. It makes the healing a lot less painful.
my deepest sympathies to Jane and her family.
i don’t really know what else to say
I am very sorry, Jane. You must be shattered. I’ll keep you in my thoughts. Wish I knew what more I could say…
I’m sorry Jane. My mom is 83 and fading. I get sad just being with her sometimes yet we’ve never loved each other so deeply as now. The Buddhists say we should see and feel every mom is our very own mom .. in fact .. we should see every living creature as our very own mother. Compassion.
Compassion is why i love Firedoglake and why having a internet family like this is so important and I love you Jane for bein’ mom and mother to us all.
Jane, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Jane, The greatest thing about the advent of the liberal blogger network is that for the first time since the sixties we have a real community and I for one no longer feel like I’m fighting this war alone. You are one of the founders and leading citizens of this family and I know that all of our collective hearts go out to you.
Jane,
You and your mother were so lucky to have each other. You are a daughter to be very proud of.
My deepest appreciation to you both, and my heartfelt condolences for your loss.
Jane,
It is with heavy heart that I extend my condolences.
Lost my mom to ovarian cancer three years ago when she had just turned fifty six. She had lived a hard life and had just found happiness again. She had found love at last and a newlywed bride who had just moved into a home they had built just for them. It was all those wonderful changes in her life that had her ignoring the signs of trouble brewing inside. By the time she was diagnosed it was just three short weeks and she was gone.
I had always meant to ask her why she named me Wendy.
I cried for your loss tonight as I cry again for mine. Love and grief is something we all have in common.
Wendy in Naperville, IL.
A mother’s love determines how
We love ourselves and others.
There is no sky we’ll ever see
Not lit by that first love.
Stripped of love, the universe
Would drive us mad with pain;
But we are born into a world
That greets our cries with joy.
How much I owe you for the kiss
That told me who I was!
The greatest gift–a love of life–
Lay laughing in your eyes.
Because of you my world still has
The soft grace of your smile;
And every wind of fortune bears
The scent of your caress.
by:
Nicholas Gordon
jane, my heart felt condolences. i would like to share my story when my mother passed away 2 years ago. she had lung cancer and we knew the end was near. when my brother called at 8pm and said come home, i immediately drrove 150 miles to be there. about 20 minutes after arriving, i was holding her hand with my brother and step-father when she took her last breath. we all went numb and than God for Hospice nurses who came and we started to do what needed to be done. the next morning, i got up and happened to see the hymnal that we used when i was a child. i currently sing in a church choir and we used the same hymnal until a few years ago. i picked up the hymnal and sat in her chair. as i started to read and sing in my head, i heard the voices of my choir singing with me. even with the tears, i found comfort. you will know what gives you comfort. please honor your sadness. we look forward to your return from doing what you need to do.
It is Saturday morning here in Australia. This evening I will watch the setting sun. When you wake on your Saturday morning and feel the sunshine on your face, just remember please Jane, that I will have sent with the sun a big kiss for you, my sympathy for all you are going through and my thanks for your excellent writing. Bless you and yours.(I hope that the Firedog Lake community won’t mind this Brit living in OZ joining in, not being an American and all. Don’t worry! The time difference means I won’t be doing it often)
I am so sorry for your loss, Jane. And I am so glad you were able to be with your mother for those last days. My own mother died suddenly and unexpectedly and I was 3000 miles away. I had to make do with remembering that I had spoken with her on the phone the previous day, about nothing in particular, but at least we had talked. But still, all these years later, I wish I had been there. In this terrible time, I hope you can take some comfort in the fact you have at least been spared that particular regret. With love and sadness, Barbara
Jane,
Thank you for being one who “walk(s)in the dark places that no one else will enter. [For] stand(ing) on the bridge” between us and so much that’s wrong out there. Your sacrifice, especially during times like these, is a blessing to us all.
Tripmaster
My most sincere condolences to Jane and her family. These things never happen at a good time, but then again, there is never a good time for things like this.
My deepest condolences to you & yours, Jane.
My Mom died in ‘85 & to this day I remember her with the same love & affection we shared when she was with us.
You will never lose your Mom as long as she is in your heart & in your memories. I see my Mother in my children’s eyes every day.
May peace & solace be with you.
L@L
My deep sympathies.
Jane–
As I thought about it some more last night, I wanted to add a couple of words. I’ve only been a parent for two years, but I’ve learned a few things in that time. And one is that I can hardly think of anything that my daughter could do to make me more proud, than the sort of work you have done here. To lead in putting together an effective community focussed on doing what’s right is the sort of thing that would just make me burst with pride. Of course I didn’t know your mother, but after only two years at this, I can know how she felt.
You should take comfort that even through to the very end of your time together, you were bringing her the greatest pride and joy.
Jane, several years after my Dad died I was talking to him and said, “I love you Papa”. In my mind I heard him answer, “I know; it shines here.”
Before that, I had thought that only love coming from “there” to “here” could have any effect, like the support and comfort I continued to experience from Dad’s love. I knew that I still loved him and talked to him, but it had never before occurred to me that the power of MY love for him could be made manifest somehow in whatever dimension, sphere or realm he exists.
But it makes sense. Love is not limited by time or space. It continues to flow back and forth between loving souls and as Dad said, it shines “there”.
I just want to share an image I had of your mother – I saw her suffused with the warm, rich light of the love she had given and received in this life and I think that the love you and your sister will always have for her will shine there too.
I hope you can wrap yourself in the warm quilt of her love and find comfort from your grief and loss from time to time.
Jane, I’m truly sorry to hear about the loss you’ve suffered. Judging by what those of us who don’t actually know you can determine about the kind of person you are, I think your mother did a great job of instilling proper values and decency into you. You should be as proud of her as she must have been of you. Sincere condolences to you and your entire family.
Jane, I am truly saddened by your loss. Thanks for all the wonderful thoughts, inspirations and common sense you bring to our world… as well as some much needed levity.
Today, I took a little extra time out from the usual day-to-day stuff to call my loving mother. Talked about everything… and nothing. Just so she could hear my voice, and more importantly, so I could hear hers.
I told her a friend had just lost her mother, and that I was really down about it. And then, when I told her it was a friend I’d never met, or talked to, or had ever written to, I got a reaction from her I totally didn’t expect… she understood perfectly. It struck me later that that’s what Moms do… they understand.
Thank you Mom for understanding. Thank you Jane’s mom. Thank you all moms.
Peace be with you.
Condolences from a longtime lurker.
Dear Jane,
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your Mother. Holding you in my heart with thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
When I think of the loss of my parent it still hurts. Its like a wound that never goes away. We never really get over it we just learn to live with it. Peace Jane on your journey to living.
I was so sorry to hear about Jane’s mom. Sending out our deepest condolences for her loss.
Dear Jane,
I’m so sorry for your loss! My thoughts are with you during this difficult time!
Mad Kane
I know I’ve been banned from here but the moderator reading this could make an exception to this, my belated condolences to Jane Hamsher and her family.
God knows Jane and I have had our differences in the past, including a particularly brutal post that I’d made about her last Sunday. But I despise the wingnuts even more who’ve made a sport of kicking her when she’s down. It doesn;t surprise me that they would do this, yet it still shocks me.
As far as I’m concerned, Jane Hamsher’s “made.” She’s off limits. Unfortunately, not everyone feels that way and I’m hunting them down one by one like Simon Weisenthal.
So if you could make a one-time exception to my banning so I could make known my condolences, I’d sure appreciate it. I don’t plan on posting at FDL ever again.
Deepest sympathies to you and your family, Jane. I hope it helps you a little bit to know that so many out here are thinking of you right now, and holding you in the light.
Peace to you.
another longtime lurker
Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know that must be hard on your entire family. I hug my mother every day and tell her I love her because we are not guranteed tommorow. Each day is a gift with our friends and family. I hope that you hold on to the love your mom gave you and pass it on to whomever crosses your path in this life and the next.
Wandered over from dKos to offer my condolences. I hope that the best wishes and good energy sent your way might ease the pain ever so slightly. I wish there was more that I could do but offer my words and prayers. Take care of yourself and your family.
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss. When I lost my Mom, two sweet little old ladies in hats and gloves approached me at the end of my Mom’s funeral service. They gave me their condolences and told me, “sweetie, your mother is going to become more real for you now then she was when she was living.” Although I had no idea what they were talking about at the time, it stuck with me and I think helped open me up to exploring the tenderness of my mothers love , of my grief for my mother and the tenderness of mother energy in the world. From the moment I first found FDL and read your and Christy’s posts I knew you were all on this same exploration.
Please take really good care of yourself. Much peace and many blessings to you and your family.
I’m very sorry to read about your loss. There have been so many lovely expressions of condolences left here. I join in everyone wishing you peace and strength in this difficult time.
Jane,
Your mother
she is at rest;
for the spirit
of her in you
all here wish
the very best
with regards
Dear Jane,
My condolences for your loss. Spending time by the ocean has brought me some comfort in painful times, I hope it does for you. –Another longtime lurker.
Dear Jane,
My heart goes out to you at this time and I know, I’ve been there done that. My father died in ‘92 and my mother died in January 2000. My mother died 4 months after my husband’s mother died suddely in China on a vaction/tour with my husband’s father. The thing I’ve learned about grief is don’t fight it, let it happen. It hurts like an S.O.B. and only time is going to ease it.
Take care,
Nora
I’m so sorry for your loss. You all will be in our prayers
Peace to you and you family, Jane.
Neil Finn wrote a beautiful song that always brings to mind my own Mom, and makes me smile to remember her.
Pretty soon you’ll be able to remember her
Lying in the garden singing
Right where she’ll always be
The door is always open
This is the place that I loved her
And these are the friends that she had
Long may the mountain ring
To the sound of her laughter
And she goes on and on
In her soft wind I will whisper
In her warm sun I will glisten
Till we see her once again
In a world without end
We send much love to Jane during this time.
Jane and Pam,
You both have our deepfelt sympathy at the loss of your mother. I know what you have gone through as I walked the same road many years ago. It is never easy and she will always be with you. You will find that true in many ways in the next few years. Mine has been gone 43 years and I still miss her (and my Dad), but I know they are in a better place and hopefully someday, we will all be together again….and then they can enjoy their grandchildren!!
It sounds like you have a wonderful and loving family and that will carry you through the grieving.
Meanwhile, God Bless all of you.
Roger and Maureen Maloney
Wakefield, MA