A new phase of our lives begins. A year ago we moved long distance and started a three-generation household. We now will begin a four-generation one, in a new home a bit further away from the city. I think of it as living in the country, even though our address is still the city. I am bringing my mother here to live with us. It will be challenging, but I hope rewarding. My body reacted to something like stress. I suppose that is all normal. There are a few reasons why this change is not good for my mother. She will be in an unfamiliar surrounding with no friends. To walk to the street, she will have to navigate a steep hill of a driveway. She has been expecting to live with my two brothers and a daughter-in-law in her current state of residence. It will be hard for her to communicate with the family members who do not speak her native language. She will have to start all over at an advanced age. But circumstances dictate this change. I hope in time, she will embrace the new lifestyle. I hope the children’s laughter and presence will brighten up her days. Although we all will have to change and adjust, I think our lives will be enriched. I drink to a new beginning.
