Rebecca's Bouquet by Lisa Jones Baker Page B

glanced at her and raised a curious brow. “How?”
    â€œYou inherited her best traits.” Rebecca stopped and turned to William. “I was little when she passed, but Mamma says you have her eyes. Her smile. Even her brows. But more importantly, William, you have her tenacity. That’s something to be proud of.”
    â€œWhat do you mean?”
    They continued their walk. Every once in awhile, William’s hand brushed Rebecca’s. Even though touching her wasn’t exactly appropriate, William savored the much-needed comforting sensation.
    â€œHer strength. Her perseverance. When she fought cancer, the doctors wrote her off, but she refused to give in. She always had faith, William. She fought hard to stay alive. I remember her telling me that she would fight till the end. And she did. I’m sure it was a battle because she must have endured terrible pain. I admired her so much, William. She was an amazing role model.”
    William gave a sad shake of his head. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t have done more for her. At the time, I didn’t realize how tough things were.” He shrugged. “Because she never complained. And to be honest, I don’t think I wanted to acknowledge that she was terminally ill. I’m sure she didn’t want to focus on cancer. In fact, she probably wouldn’t have lasted as long as she did, if she had.”
    â€œYou’ve got a point. Remember, you were only a child. Kids usually don’t understand the pain their parents go through. How can they? They’re not mature enough. Or experienced. I think you did the best thing you could have done for her.”
    â€œWhat?”
    â€œJust being there. Talking to her. And helping her get through each day. It’s probably best that you didn’t focus on her illness. Old Sam told me that Miriam was the kind of woman who didn’t want to worry anyone, especially her own son. That was one of her remarkable traits.”
    â€œI still wish I had helped more.”
    â€œYou were wonderful. You did your chores. I’m sure your folks couldn’t have made it without you. You never disobeyed them. You were there day in and day out. Remember that scripture about love being the greatest gift?”
    Lowering his head, he nodded slowly.
    Rebecca lifted her chin. “Never underestimate the value of memories. They get us through life. And they can also serve as important teaching tools.” She paused. “William, you couldn’t have had a nicer mamma. When I visited, she always managed a smile.”
    William grinned. “She was happy.”
    â€œJah. In fact, I don’t even recall her mentioning her illness. Instead, she asked about me.” Rebecca smiled a little. “She was always interested in what we learned at school. I think she would have made a great teacher. She made sure we did our homework.”
    William rolled his eyes. “I remember.”
    â€œAnd she loved talking scripture. Be proud of your mamma, William. I saw a bumper sticker once that said, ‘How many years you live doesn’t matter. It’s how much life you put into those years that’s important. ’”
    â€œThat makes sense. Obviously, whoever said it never lost someone. It’s easy to give advice when you have everything.”
    â€œJust think of all your mamma did. Even when she was sick. It’s pretty amazing, really. Old Sam mentioned that she packed more into her short life than most eighty-year-olds. And in a sense, you’re carrying on with her wishes.”
    â€œWhat do you mean?”
    Rebecca’s voice reflected surprise. “Just what I said. She had a life full of goals. But her efforts didn’t die. Because when she passed on, you continued fulfilling her wishes.”
    William thought about what Rebecca said.
    â€œShe loved Daniel, William. Just like she loved you. She spent her life taking care of the two of you. Now