As we neared the last days of my mom's life, I wanted to understand what she was feeling and seeing. The day before she took her last breath I decided to ask her. First I wanted to make sure she could comprehend what I was saying. I told her I loved her, and she raised her eyebrows in acknowledgment. Then I shared a funny story about a conversation my sister and I had. The corners of her mouth turned up in a smile. I could tell that she was taking in every word. And then I went for it. "Mom, can I ask you a serious question?" She turned her head and opened her eyes fully. I could tell she wanted to grasp every word that came out of my mouth. "Mom, do you see any of our dead relatives in the room? Do you see your dad?" she shook her head. Do you see your mom?" She shook her head again. "Do you see dad?" Her response was quite different this time. She began nodding her head. "Is he here in this room right now?" She nodded. "Can he see me?" She nodded again. Then she tried to communicate with words, but she couldn't get the words out. The next morning she died peacefully.. A few weeks ago, I was wondering why I haven't had many dreams of my mom since she died. That night I had one of the clearest dreams I've had for a long time. Mom was dressed beautifully. She stared at me with a huge smile. Her eyes were bright and full of life. She was happier than I had seen her in years. And she was younger. We didn't exchange any words, but it was clear that she was happy and free. I woke up with joy in my heart. What did the author dream that night?
Her mother talked with her. Her mother was in high spirits. Her mother's eyes seemed dull. Her mother looked older than ever.