18 Comments
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K E Garland's avatar

Fran, your writing really flows here. This is memoir 🙌🏽

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you Kathy!

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Jeff Cann's avatar

While we can all play the what if game about how things would have turned out differently with different input/situations, your story is that of a headstrong youth that made her own decisions. I suspect that would have changed much if your mother lived until your adulthood.

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you, Jeff. Did you mean would have, or would not have?

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Jeff Cann's avatar

Sorry, would not have. I really need to read what I type before I hit reply.

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Fran Mason's avatar

No worries. That's what I thought you meant, and you made me think about it myself, thanks!

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Marsha Egan's avatar

Fran,

I so enjoyed this... so much wisdom at a young age.

I love you Cousin!!

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you, Marsha!

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Trisha Prosser's avatar

"...two sides of the same shield." Love your ending.

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you!

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Rick McMahon's avatar

Many of is less challenged, don’t have your vivid memories. I’m sure they are so clear due to your Moms death in your tween years. Your writing takes me back to those late 70s in Rogers Park. God and you mom blessed you in this way.

The thing about religion is that a church is not a building, the Church is the people who attend. The Body of Christ is a community of faith, not just a wafer on Sunday. Faith speaks to you when you’re ready to open your heart to it. Your Moms faith was a beacon, to lead you to faith when you needed it.

I hope you find it.

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you, Rick. I'm glad my writing takes you back--hopefully in a good way. Wish we could compare memories of the Albion building.

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Leslie Hoge's avatar

I love getting more glimpses of your mom! Nice post.

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thank you!

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Amy Botula (she/her)'s avatar

"...two sides of the same shield." Love that Fran!

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Fran Mason's avatar

Thanks, Amy!

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Jeff Cann's avatar

While we can all play the what if game about how things would have turned out differently with different input/situations, your story is that of a headstrong youth that made her own decisions. I suspect that would have changed much if your mother lived until your adulthood.

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Mary Beth Lang's avatar

Fran, this is so insightful and beautifully written. I do believe your mom wanted to live and experience many things she had not, and would be so very proud of you 💕

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