"Ma was on a mission," Michael writes. Explain at least three of the positive ways Ma tries to stave off the sorrow for her deceased children.

"She was learning cosmetology and gave back by giving haircuts to the homeless or makeovers to those dying with AIDS. She played Irish music at wakes. As McDonald said, "Ma was on a mission to help the mothers who had lost their children." Page 343

These were the ways in which his mother tried to give back to the community and stave off the sorrow for her deceased children.