A Mother’s Day Letter

For me, Mother’s Day is a time to express my gratitude to beautiful women who have touched my life, making me into the woman, wife, mother, and friend I have become. This year, just as I’ve done every year for the past 35 years, I had my Mother’s Day Card to Malkah Schulweis addressed, stamped and ready to mail.

Her passing is a deep loss to me. She wasn’t my biological mother, but she was my wise, empathic, loving, mother figure. By sharing what I wrote to her when I learned she was quite ill, I am giving her another well-deserved eulogy.

When I was a teenager in Sunday school class, I learned, “Jews believe in eternal life.”  I distinctly remember wondering and questioning what this really meant. Now, as a 62-year-old woman, I find that I can be part of granting those who have touched me as profoundly as Malkah did, eternal life in my manifestation of their wisdom, love, guidance and persona. Malkah will live on in me forever and always.

Dearest Malkah,

How can I possibly find all of the right words to express my gratitude and love for you… 

35 years ago, I was mesmerized by your brilliance when you gave a talk about the relationship between Mothers and Daughters.  From that day forward, you have been in my life as a teacher, mother figure and wise guide through the many chapters we shared filled with trials and tribulations. 

You will be granted eternal life as you live on through my internal voice ringing loud and clear with your poetic lessons about life, death, love, conflict, joy, sorrow, relationships and resilience. Your voice, your wisdom is in me, and will live through me. I will replay your guidance and inspiration in my head and share your words and philosophy with others.  

I have pages and pages of Malkah notes. I could write a book called Malkah’s Wisdom!  

Through tears I write this… I will always cherish, and surely miss, our talks that would feed my soul, nourish my spirit and settle my angst.

You most certainly guided me back to center with the right words of advice. And even when we didn’t speak I would have a conversation with you in my head and I would feel whole again.  

I will always hold onto and treasure our special relationship and bond.

I give you my enduring love and deepest gratitude. I hold you in my heart and head forever and always.

With Smiles, love, devotion and gratitude,

Jodi

Jodi Stolove is the creator of Chair Dancing® Fitness.  Her personal and professional goal is to motivate and inspire people of all ages, shapes, and fitness levels, to find joy in exercise, thus reaping all the benefits- whether they exercise “on their seat” or “on their feet.” In addition, Ms. Stolove continues to work as a dance instructor and performance coach. She particularly loves working with kids pursuing musical theatre. She also has helped countless people with their relationship to food, eating, self-concept and their body image. Ms. Stolove teaches her eating management style guiding people to a healthier relationship towards food, fun, and their self image.