When I learned how sick you became, I knew I had to pray.
If you hadn't died, we'd be celebrating your 77th birthday.
You are the reason why I exist.
You certainly have been missed.

You were born on the side of the road because the ambulance broke down.
You were my mother and I would be happier if you were still around.
You died and there was nothing I could do to stop it from happening.
You were always a terrific mother and I'm proud to be your offspring.

I had to accept your death but I wish you were still alive.
You had an abdominal aneurysm and you didn't survive.
The surgeon couldn't save your life even though he tried.
Today would've been your 77th birthday if you hadn't died.

[Dedicated to Agnes M. Johnson (1948-2013) who passed away on March 6, 2013]