Mother's Day

Traditionally this is the day we honor our mothers. I have done that in the past, and will certainly be calling my mother and wishing her a Happy Mother’s Day, but I will spend most of the day in reflection. What kind of mother was I? Did I nurture and encourage as well as instruct? Did I guide more than demand?

From my perspective as a mother of grown children, I can only say that sometimes I succeeded and other times I failed. I hope my children remember my love and encouragement and choose to forgive and forget my failings They still me haunt after all these years.

It is my faith that keeps those painful memories from driving me toward depression or addictions. God loves me in spite of my failings, just as I love my children in spite of theirs.

As for my own mother, at this point I view her mistakes in a much different light. Intent far outweighs action. Even though I didn’t always agree with her choices, her intention was one of guidance and instruction, metered with love. And her choices helped me to make the right choices as a child as well as an adult. I am the person I am at this moment, not only because of my life experiences, but also because of the foundation my mother laid early in my growing years. I knew right from wrong, even when I chose wrong. 

I am fortunate my mother is still alive and in reasonably good health. In fact, I am lucky to still have both of my parents. They are my most faithful fan club and ardent supporters. I try to do the same for my children, a bit more difficult now that they are scattered across several states and lead very busy lives, but we manage through social sites, phone calls, and those rare and precious visits. 

I wish my daughter a very Happy Mother's Day. She is passing on the same guidance and structure dolled out with love, patience, and understanding that my mother used with me, and I tried to follow with my children. In fact, all of my children have been good parents, in spite of my flawed example. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all moms who love and cherish their children, regardless whether that love was perfect or not. We tried, we cared, and most of all, we loved, and will continue to love past our last breath and on through eternity.