A TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER, LallarB.

A TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER, LallarB.

This is a tribute to my Mother, LallarB. McNulty-Mack, whose birthday is February 18th. Growing up, she taught us about fighting for our rights, all six siblings, courtesy and respect (however, if you want it, give it, vice-verse--and what's good for the "goose is good for the gander"). In the '50's, trying to get into parochial school, St. Jerome's, was hard, and she spoke to the pastor and asked him how can one teach love, etc., and not allow her children to go to elementary school for a good education. My oldest sister broke the "color" barrier. The "barrier" was also broken in a little Irish bar, which only catered to non-people of color, and men. She was received with, dignity, pride and respect--in a word-- royalty. I self-taught myself to sew, and made her an outfit--vest and skirt (red). I couldn't believe my eyes when she actually wore that outfit to work--I wouldn't dare wear it in the apartment, let alone in the streets--I cried. She had a great sense of humor, along with a temper to match. She was patient, understanding and explained questions, to the best of her ability, besieged by myself, alone--not to mention the other siblings. She was the glue that held the "bond"--family together. My father, who was a great provider, did not exactly have the knack for patience--MEN! Go figure--Yet, he was always there for her (38 years), as well as us. My mother passed away May 27, 1971, from pancreatic cancer, and she was a trouper to the end--even enduring the pain she so desperately tried to hide. Every February 18th, my tribute to her was to take off from work, and to have celebratory Mass said for her.--This writing, by far, is the greatest tribute that I can give her and share with everyone--short of renaming New York City to her name, for the fantastic job she did in teaching us right from wrong, fighting for our rights and as she always said "stand tall, stomach in, chest out--be proud." Which brings to my next entry--my fight--LILLIAN ANN MACK vs. THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM (GATE), ET.AL.

THANKS MOM!

LOVE ALWAYS, YOUR DAUGHTER,

LILLIAN ANN MACK