In deepest shade

/ Su Leslie
Finding the light. Black and white macro shot of gerbera at the Wintergarden, Auckland Museum. Image: Su Leslie, 2016.

Finding the light #1. Gerbera at the Wintergarden, Auckland Museum. Image: Su Leslie, 2016.

The Big T’s mother died last weekend. She had suffered ill-health for a number of years, and finally, after a spell in hospital, came home to spend her final days cared for by family.

It’s only in darkness that we can really see light. The last few weeks have brought light from unexpected sources; old friends arriving to offer support, grandchildren demonstrating again and again what fine adults they have become, professionals going way more than the extra mile to comfort and assist. These kindnesses large and small have shone bright and illuminated hope.

Black and white, macro shot of magnolia branch. Image: Su Leslie, 2016

Finding the light #2. Magnolia branch. Image: Su Leslie, 2016

Where there is much light the shade is deepest.
—  Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Written (somewhat belatedly) for Sally D’s Mobile Photography Challenge at Lens and Pens by Sally.

52 thoughts on “In deepest shade”

  1. My deepest condolences to Big T and your entire family. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is expected … losing a parent is emotionally tough.
    Experiencing the kindness of friends and associates helps make the heart lighter. So glad you were able to experience that warmth and caring.

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    • Thanks Joanne. It’s surprising the people who come through for us when we need them. I’m incredibly proud of the boy-child and his cousins; they have all stepped up and shown maturity beyond their years. Something that was much needed at times.

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  9. I´m so sorry to hear about this, Su! You all have my deepest sympathies! You´ve written so wonderfully about this light that shone through these dark hours with people who love and care. Your shots remind me very much of victorian images regarding mortality and the beauty of life…

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    • Thank you Anabel. The Big T and I have been so lucky to have reached the ages we are with a full set of parents each, and of course the boy-child has known all his grandparents. Now we have to accept that we’re becoming “the older generation.”

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