Page 102 - Reason To Sing by Kelita Haverland

Reason To Sing

of how my great grandfather, David Whitney, was one of the
first pioneer cowboys to help settle Southern Alberta. And that
my great Uncle Stanley participated in the first-ever Calgary
Stampede in 1912. And that he was also a world champion
trick roper. My other great Uncle William was enlisted with
the RCMP’s 2nd contingent to Fort Macleod in 1877. She
wants me to know of my family history. Mom used to belong
to the local Historical Society in Claresholm and helped to
compile a book about the history of some of the ranching and
farming families in our community. She has always loved the
country life and cattle ranching. It’s in her blood.
In the wake of Daddy’s suicide, my mother had to struggle
with all the blame his family placed on her. While dealing with
the owning and operating of our cattle business and ranch. But
now her life is quite different. She has been busy getting all
her affairs in order. There have been many appointments with
lawyers and accountants. This scares the heck out of me.
Through it all and even now, in so much pain, she’s always
more concerned about others. She never complains or is
negative. She usually stands with her head held high and smiles
that beautiful smile that can light up any room.
But today, as I watch her trying to get dressed, her clothes
hanging limply on her withered frame, I am seeing my mother
through different eyes. And it breaks my heart.
I’m also starting to wonder if there is a whole other side
of her that I don’t even know. There have always been so many
secrets. I think she’s been hiding something for a long time.
She has started talking to Pastor Charles and my Aunt Lucille
has been seeing him too. I have no idea what they talk about,
but he invited us all to his church.
Of course, Mike would never come but Vian and I
accompany our mother. I like it when it’s just the three of us.

88