Eleven years ago before Mother’s Day, we celebrated our Mother’s life as she peered down from Heaven’s glory. Even though the memorial was to celebrate her life it was the hardest good-bye I have ever faced. The following, is in part, what I shared to honor my mom’s life on that day, and I'm reminded of it every Mother's Day
Proverbs 1:8:9 says: “Never forget what you learned from your mother… Wear their counsel like flowers in your hair,like rings on your fingers.
My mother taught me how to laugh at myself …. her unspoken motto was, “Blessed are we who can laugh at ourselves for we shall never cease to be amused.”
Because of the many silly things she would do, Mom was never short of material to laugh about. During my teenage years I found most of her stories amusing, while at other times I was completely mortified. However, it did not take me long to realize that I was cut from the same cloth, fighting a battle I could not win…slowly beginning to embrace the joy and freedom that comes in laughing at one’s self.
My brother Troy and his love for wheels.
My mother taught me the joy of worshiping the Lord.I have fond memories of mom and I singing hymns while she played on the piano in our basement. She had a thankful heart and loved to worship God in song.
My mother taught me to celebrate life ….
Mom was eager celebrate and have fun … when we where younger she made every occasion special and festive, full of life and laughter…. even the simplest things felt over the top because of all the love she poured into it.
For as long as I can remember, before we ate our dinner she would put a paper napkin on her head as if it were a hat; making sure everyone could see her to get a laugh. I never tired of watching her get the biggest kick out of that! I have no doubt that she is feasting in Heaven with everyone joining in her napkin hat merriment ..
My mother taught me to be frugal.
Mom knew how to pinch pennies, get a bargain and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Thanks to her I realized how much product is left in a toothpaste tube, or a shampoo bottle if you cut them in half getting every last bit from the container. Mom would be giddy when I gave her my old plastic grocery bags so she could recycle them for her garbage. Her exuberance would make me laugh and I would say, “Oh mom, thank you but I’m only giving you plastic bags.” Nowadays I totally understand her exuberance! Plastic Bags are a big deal !
My mother taught me how to love my children selflessly.
Charles Lamb said: “A mother’s love grows by giving”
My heart bursts with joy at any opportunity I may have with my children to lend a helping hand. Even though they are all grown up, I'm eager to lighten a load,
bring a smile
or a word of encouragement and keep them close in my heart and prayers.
And that same joy is felt in regards to my beautiful daughter in love and precious grandchildren.
My mother taught me the power of prayer…
My mother’s prayers for me and my family brought comfort, strength and joy. Having a deep and rich reservoir of answered prayers within my spirit to remember God’s goodness with.
Abraham Lincoln“I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life ..
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My mother taught me to Love God …..
By far her greatest hope and desire was that her family knew Christ as their personal Savior, living daily staying close to His side. To love His word and putting their trust in all His promises. Knowing for themselves He is good all the time. Walking by faith even when life seems difficult and disappointing.
Displaying this so beautifully throughout her life even to the end. Even during the eight hospital stays in less then a year, and in the midst of rapidly declining health. One particular day after telling her I loved her, I finished by saying God is good. Mustering up enough strength she replied boldly, “Oh you better believe it “.
One time while visiting my mom at the hospital I read to her this verse.Psalms 71:17-18 “O God, you have taught me from my youth, and hitherto have I declared your wondrous works. Yes, even when I am old and grey headed, O God, forsake me not, but keep me alive until I have declared Your mighty strength to this generation, and your might and power to all that are to come.”
Thank you mom for your shining example in human frailty. Your love, sacrifices and unwavering faith accompany me while you now live in all of God's Glory.
Lord, your word rings true. “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” Though I miss you something terrible, I know your having the best Mothers Day ever in all of Heaven’s glory. I love you
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