 |
In the Bible, numerous verses touch on the meaning of help. The author’s life, through the lens of Psalms 91, is a living testament to being there and providing help with every ounce of one's being. At every corner, whether it is with her mother, father, or her three siblings, Berry’s faith in family is put to the test, and each time, she passes with flying colors. While candidly acknowledging in her writing the strain the constant sacrifice places on her own life, the author understands and embraces the impact she is able to make, while simultaneously exploring the idea of death and dying, particularly through dreams, premonition, and intuition. Ironically, the author’s mother—and eventually the author herself—had dreams that foreshadowed what was to transpire in real life.
At its core, the narrative clearly shows how the author is resolute and embracing, using the energy of prayer to ensure that her loved ones are comfortable no matter how devastating the diagnosis is. When pondering one’s mortality, it is inevitable to view the notion of fleeting time as separate. This is especially noticeable in the narrative when it discusses the author’s parents, who spent a good chunk of time caring for their Mama Rosie before her passing. As the author’s mother is being carried into her home to live out her final moments, she delivers one simple message to Berry: help. Since then, the author has treated her mother’s words as gospel, ensuring that, however difficult, her family will get the care and tenderness from her as if she herself were their mother. Through it all, Berry is quick to credit scripture verses that carry her through, giving her the strength to move beyond the “I” and focus on how she can impact her family. Berry’s inspiring book may encourage many to help also.