Thank you, Mom, for giving me life. Without you, I would not be here. There should be more than one day each year when I reflect on how much you’ve given me since the day I was born.
But it’s easier to get busy with life and grumble about the shortfalls than to stop the negativity and focus on the good things.
And my mother poured many good things into my life. I’m sure your mother did as well.
If it wasn’t for my mother, I never would have:
- Learned the value of hard work
- Met Jesus
- Attended church
- Memorized scripture
When I was younger, I hated that my mom was strict. Once I had my own children, I realized that those boundaries proved her love beyond measure. No, I wasn’t as strict with my sons, but I believe they can now appreciate why I made many of the “rules” I did for them. Because now they have children of their own.
The best things my mother taught me:
- To read
- To sing like I mean it
- To love without reservation
- To practice self-discipline
- To serve God no matter what other people said or did
- To be a participant in life not an observer
- To keep learning
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I’m sure it’s another gorgeous day in Heaven. I can’t believe it’s been eight years since I last celebrated Mother’s Day with you.
If you still have your mother, call her up today. Tell her you’re grateful for all she’s done for you. Give her one specific memory to hold onto.
“I love you, mom,” the sweetest words to my ears.
One day, I’ll hug my mom and whisper them in her ear.
A Pew Perspective 