As my Mother's only child, I was raised a bit spoiled. LOL, most only children are. But I knew I was loved and protected. From early on, if I fell my mother would pick me up, show me how to stand, walk and present myself well. She taught me how to pronounce things, hold my fork and eat at the dinner table. I knew how to put together an outfit without it being a name brand or expensive. You don't need a lot of money to look good, just have taste. She also took me to church and would also be what she referred to as 'the taxi' for my friends and I when we went to cultural events. My mother's goal was for me to explore different things to understand the world and I did, I am and will continue to.
My first concert was Gladys Knight and I remember it because it was my first time at the St. Louis Fox theater. I wore my Easter dress because it was the most formal attire as a kid. I remember standing and being put on a seat to see over the crowd while I sang the only song that I knew of hers, Love Overboard. At that time, this music video was constantly played on a show called Video Soul on BET. That was my introduction to Gladys knight as a kid. I am part of the music video generation. I heard of Gladys and most likely heard songs being played by the adults (mom, family and their friends), but for our generation seeing the videos is what really made them stars!
As I explore my life with my mom after her death, my goal is to remind others to look for that one moment that shaped your Life with them as a kid. Then use that to begin healing. Live for them but thrive for yourself!
Sherri M. Littleton,
My Mother's Only Child.
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