The woman who started Mother’s Day hated what happened to it; the commercialism. I agree with her. The idea of having a holiday just so merchants can sell us coffee cups that say “I love Mom” doesn’t really do much for me. However the idea of honoring moms does appeal to me, and I know so many that deserve some sort of award that I’ve decided to mention just a few of them here.
Denise is a teaching buddy who is divorced and remarried. Her two sons have what I consider serious health issues. One is a diabetic and one is asthmatic. Because I taught next door to her I overheard a lot of what went on in her classroom and I can testify that she is one awesome teacher. She works hard. She works late and weekends. She loves and respects every child in her classroom and she doesn’t cut corners. She loves her husband and her children and she is an awesome mother. She manages to juggle their health issues and a fulltime career beautifully.
Mary Lenita is another teaching friend. She is actually a retired teacher who came back to work part time and does such a good job that the staff doesn’t want her to ever retire for good! Her two children are grown and are successful members of the community. She has granddaughters that she hosts makeup parties and sleep overs for. But the thing that impresses me the most about her is the loving way she cares for her own mother. Her mother is in her nineties and pretty much homebound. Mary Lenita sees that she is never left alone. She takes her to all her medical appointments and lovingly checks on her through out the day each and every day.
Jessie is a friend from church who is raising three of her granddaughters. They have lived with her since they were very young. Jessie is about my age, maybe a few years older (I am 52) and she parents and grandparents with a gusto that leaves me tired. The girls are at church every Sunday morning and Sunday night and Wednesdays. They attend every school function and they are growing into fine young ladies.
Gina is a buddy from way back. She has two children and a step-son who adore her, but the reason I mention her here is because we share something in common. Gina’s mother has cancer. When your mom has cancer it is a life changing experience. If that wasn’t enough of a battle, Gina has faced cancer as well. Gina’s heart is the size of Texas and while it hasn’t been easy for her, she has handled her own health issues and those of her mom with dignity and grace. If I had a magic wand I would wave it over my friend’s life and “fix” all her problems, but I can’t so I keep her close in prayer.
And then there is Gaye; sweet, kind, loving Gaye. For the past year her husband has been fighting cancer the way a prize boxer fights a bigger, fierce and very scary opponent. Her life has turned into a rollercoaster ride that would terrify the faint of heart. Her four sons have rallied round her and the whole community is cheering them on as they do their best to take one day at a time and enjoy even the smallest victories. A year ago mowing the yard seemed like such a mundane thing, but now when her husband is able to mow the yard or wash his truck, Gaye stands at the window and offers prayers of thanks and gratitude to the God who she knows is watching over her. In addition to her loving support of her husband her only grandchild has a heart condition and the possibility of more surgery looms in the future. Gaye’s job at the local Chamber of Commerce keeps her in the public eye and while she occasionally shows her human side (she wore two different colored shoes to work one day this week) most of the time she is such a polished professional that she amazes us all. We love you Gaye!
I can’t close without mentioning my own mother. Shirley Demumbrum Bell. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss her. Not a Mother’s Day goes by that I don’t shed a tear for her, but I’ve learned to celebrate her life in my heart and I know that would make her happy. No mother wants their children to mourn them forever. Miss them, yes. Mourn them, no. Mom was an amazing woman but I know that the best way I can thank her for the wonderful job she did is by being a good mom and grandmother to my children and grandchildren.
Mother’s Day is really about love. Mom’s give their children love and ask them to pass it on. Happy Mother’s Day to all my “Mom Friends.” I love you and you are awesome. Moms Rock!!!!