Today is my mom’s birthday. There are lots of things that I love about my mom. Here are a few things about her that I hope to someday emulate:
1) She is generous and holds onto material things loosely. More often than not, if you admire something she has, she will give it to you. Even special, big things.
2) She adopts people, and not just for a season. My mom included some of my friends like family when I was growing up. Not that they were just allowed to tag along. She loved(s) them (probably more than I did at times), and, even now, she holds them very closely in her heart, prays for them and misses them. She does this with lots of people, more than just my friends.
3) She is feminine, yet very very capable when it comes to all things electronic, fixing things, yard work, handling a chainsaw, and just hard work in general.
4) She handles large life-changes with determination and grace. Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes after 50 is a pretty big shock to the system, but she has persevered, throwing herself into the new lifestyle, and barely missed a beat.
5) When she has guests over, she makes them feel like they are doing her a huge favor by being there. As though, changing the sheets and making the food for them is a big honor for her.
6) She is the best Nana I know, possibly the best the in the whole world. She cares about and nurtures her grandkids’ spiritual development. She babysits tirelessly. She has a special and distinct relationship with each of her 12 grandkids. They all feel very loved.
7) She is in relationships for the long-haul and isn’t afraid of a messy one. If you’re a hopelessly flawed person, my mom won’t be scared off, she’s in it for the duration. She gives grace as she’s received it.
8) She has the right perspective on things. Things are meant to be used for a purpose. If they break in the process, no sweat. It means they were getting used. She doesn’t protect her things, she protects people.
9) She has never apologized for being first and foremost the manager of her home. She stayed home when we kids were growing up and she stays home now. She understands the value in it.
10) It is her glory to overlook an offense. This probably happens much more than I know.
Well, as I read through the list, I know it falls short. But it is a glimpse of the things I see and hope to be. And, if you know my mom, you know that, for her, talk is cheap. So, while she will appreciate this list, she is a woman of action. So, if I write the list with admiration, but don’t treat her well, it means little. And she’s right. That’s another thing I could add to my list.
Happy Birthday, Mom.
Thank you, Abigail. I’m blessed and embarrassed. I most enjoyed you sharing with everyone that I do indeed know how to and have use a chainsaw. Bless you.
what a great way to honor your mom on her birthday…
I always felt loved and welcomed by your mom! I loved being at your house! We had a lot of great times together growing up. Tell your mom Happy Birthday! Hope you had a great Christmas!
i wish i knew your mom
Abigail, what a great way to honor your mother. I have known her a long time and agree with everyone of your points! What a great daughter you are.
Bea, hope you had a great birthday. Would love to see you if you are ever in the Burlington area.
I am crying. What a wonderful thing you have given your mother. I think I know those things about her. I would add determination as a key characteristic. She has had that since she was little. And, the ability to make good choices in all areas of her life. She is my sister and I love her too.