More Than a Mother

Twenty-nine years into this life of mine, there is a truth that reveals itself more and more every year. My life is affected everyday by some very incredible women. These women are not only mothers, but they are truly moms.

With my dad being a pastor and mom working, my brother and I were looked after by moms within the church and community. Well, really, that started back in Knoxville, Tennessee; long before we ever left for Louisville, Kentucky. Becoming a missionary kid, the care-taking only increased. Pretty cool having “moms” on a few different continents.

This last year, I myself have gotten a solid glimpse into the sacrifices moms make on a daily basis. And the real amazing revelation I got out of walking a mile in moms’ shoes is that no matter how hard it is to deal with her children (including her husband at times), this is a job she actually wants!!!

If you would, please grant me the time to show my real love and appreciation to three moms in my life that will forever have an impact on the way I live the rest of my life.

Mom, thank you. Not sure I have ever said that as it relates to all the life-lessons you taught me. You may have thought I wasn’t listening, but I heard you. In fact, I still hear you. They have stores that sell posters and landscape pictures expressing some of the characteristics that you were trying to instill in me growing up. You are the powerful prayer warrior I know. Your quiet strength, whether physical or spiritual or mental, has often times inspired me to be more than who I was ok with becoming. Mom, we live far apart from one another now. You’re doing what God has called you to do. Doesn’t mean I can’t miss you. Again, for all the times you were my mom above being a friend, thank you.

Liz. Whew, where to begin, hon. I’ll go ahead and ask the question you have heard hundreds of times now. How do you do it? Your body has betrayed you so many times; but yet, your true joyful spirit remains. Doesn’t mean you can’t let your guard down and take time to rest, but you’re will to be mom to our five children is an absolute inspirtation. I watch the way you are with each of them individually…I have so much to learn. To watch and to listen to how they respond to your presence and to your voice and touch, I can’t help but really smile down deep and thank God that I get to be a part of that. Yes, you have times where you have been really sick and in pain, bit please know that none of that has kept your kids from wanting to climb into your lap when  you sit down and wanting to give you hugs while you try to fix their hair. There is a saying that you were given these children because you are the only one that can love them like they need to be loved. Well, watching my family, I see it going both ways. You were given these children because they are the ones that know how to love YOU the way you need to be loved. Liz, you rest when you need to. Please ask for help when you need it. Take time for Liz. And know that I love you for being much much more than mother to these kiddos. You are the true definition of mom.

K, or in my world, Special K. Since last year’s mother’s day, I have needed to lean on you so much. In fact, the amount of time of your’s that you have spent with my kids or with Liz, helping me out, well it is unfair. Oh wait, you’re a mom. It isn’t about fairness; but rather, about the love, the never-ending love that you give to your children, and now grandchildren. (And to your two son-in-laws.) You, maybe more than anyone else, have listened to be grieve and cry and vent, and been there when I just want to collapse. You have encouraged me when I needed an extra push. You have hugged me when life seemed like a black hole. And all of that is just what you have done for me directly; not to mention the amazing love that my children have for their K.

Moms do make the world go round. Whether you are a mom-to-be, a first-time mom, or have been a mom longer than you haven’t, may you know that today, you are loved, appreciated, and needed. Why do you think Mom is the one mentioned when an athlete is on camera? It seems that to a mother, everyday is Mother’s Day. It’s just real sad that we only take one day of the year to celebrate you. And specifically to the mothers in my life, I do celebrate you today.