06 May 2009

This may not be for everyone.

Some of you may be acquainted with my deep distrust if not frank dislike of serious messages delivered through electronic media. Don't flirt over text. Don't break up over facebook. Don't bicker over blog. To me it seems undignified.

But today, distance and situational impotence provoke me to turn here--a corner of the interwebs I'm sure hardly anyone visits anymore except in the hopes of seeing wedding pictures (which I promise will come one day)--to tell you what I can about my parents.

First. They're the kind of parents who said swears even when we were young. They're the kind who told us at young ages that they were deviant kids, and who described to us with a glimmer in their eyes (sometimes a wink, sometimes a tear) their forms of rebellion. They're the kind who really really couldn't wait to give us the sex talk because more than anything they loved to watch us squirm. They're the kind who didn't leave the room to have a fight. And I start with all this because I think it's important to point out that they are flawed, but in that rare way where they never expected us to think that they weren't.

Second. The most important thing they've taught me: they would always love me, more than anything, no matter what.

Third. Some key things I've learned about them (by watching and testing, as all kids do...)

They're honest--more honest than the vast majority of people I believe I've met in my adult life.

They mean harm to no one. Not a soul. Ever.

They're learning as they go.

They believe, above most things (but not all), in the inherent humor of all situations.

Behind those big mouths, they feel things very very deeply, both for themselves and for others.

Fourth. The most important thing I think I can say to them right now: I believe in you.

Since there's nothing I can do to stop the hurting, I thought I would at least stand for the truth and declare the unassailable fact that John and Lynn Forester have only ever tried to do what they truly thought was right, and when they've failed (as all do) it's been the result of all-too-common human frailty, rather than malicious and selfish plotting. I've never been more proud and grateful than in this moment to have been lucky enough to be their daughter.

11 comments:

Crazymamaof6 said...

your parents are GEMS. i fondly look back on the time i spent in your house with your wonderful parents. i loved that they were so real. not fakey perfection. they are good people. its a huge bummer what is going on.(and i only got the Facebook condensed version)
but still!
sad!

hugs for you! to them, and your family!!
~Julie

ReaRiahRoa said...

Courtney, This is quite the tribute. I don't know what is going on (just randomly have your page in my google reader) but I hope everything will be ok.

Ms. Liz said...

Word and amen! I think the only way I could love and respect your parents more (in all of their flawed glory) is if they were my own flawed and amazing parents.

I'm so sorry you're going through all of this right now. It's the definition of unfair but my love and prayers are with all of you.

Miss you tons.
~e

Renee said...

There are few people in this world that I love and respect more than your parents (and your whole family for that matter). I've rarely met a more loving, generous, and kind group of people. All my love and prayers are with them (and you)!

rachel said...

This is now the fourth time that I have read this post and still can't get through it without crying. Thanks

Drew and Alicia said...

AMEN Court!!!! Me too rachie!!!

Matt said...

Thanks for the warning, people. I'm sitting at my desk at work bawling. Seriously, a little heads up would have been helpful. I know you alluded to the fact that this blog was going to be on the more serious side, but I think a more pointed disclaimer like, "Matt, if you're reading this, you're gonna cry -- so maybe wait until you're not at work." Seriously though, love you, love your parents.

Laurel said...

My mom and I were just talking tonight about how wonderful your parents are. Seriously two of the best people. Ever. I respect them so much. I'm so lucky to at least be able to call them my aunt and uncle.
And just as lucky to call you all my cousins!

Good luck with everything. Love you lots

S D Lindseth said...

Is this a daughter's loving tribute or a way to skirt around horribly sad news? I certainly hope its the prior.

Also - Cobb I read your blog.

Michelle said...

Courtney, I keep checking your mom's blog because I know that when she updates it, it will mean she is feeling stronger, better, and not so beaten down. Today, I checked just for the heck of it, after hearing some other bad news (not related to your family!). I wanted to catch up on yours, and read this statement and tribute to your parents. Tears, me too. Fondness, me too. Awesomeness, me too. You are a jewel Courtney and living proof of the wonderful parents you have. ~Love, Michelle

iamerica said...

Dearest,

I hope you are well. I hope your parents are well. I'm sitting no more than an hour from them and sadly wondering what prompted this post. I love and miss you.