Press: Think twice before firing mom from your life

North County Times - Think twice before firing mom from your life: "'You know, mom,' I said. 'Just because I'm on my own doesn't mean you can't give your opinion about the things I tell you.'

'You're grown,' she said. 'You don't need me to tell you anything.'

'It's like this,' I said. 'My life is like a corporation. I'm CEO now, but you're not fired. I'm kicking you upstairs. You can be the President of the Board of Advisors. I expect to consult you on all important decisions. I'm the major stockholder, but I'll always at least listen to your opinion.'

She was thoughtful for a long moment, then said, 'When you get to Montreal, don't share a room with (so-and-so), and you stay with the group, you hear.'

I was tempted to laugh, wondering how she had held it in for so long.

'Yes ma'am,' I said. 'I'll be careful.'

My mom died 19 years ago. I'm making all my own decisions. Sometimes I desperately wish I could ask her to help me figure things out. One more bit of advice, one more time.

I should have paid closer attention. I should have given her a better salary and more benefits.

I hope they have golden parachutes in heaven.

Because she was my mother, that's why."