Sunday, May 10, 2009

Mother's Day


As a child, I can honestly say that there was no other dream that I had more powerfully than my desire to be a Mother. Funny, when my children ask me, "What did you want to be when you were growing up Mom?" I answer truthfully, "Exactly what I am". The seed was planted deeply, for that I am thankful.

I have had many examples of great mother's through out my life. What a blessing. I remember watching my own mother work three jobs as a single mother to keep us all together, my mother-in-law with her gentle tone and the hugs for her "Little Rick" to so many other great woman who have taught me through their example. There is always so much learning that is requiredin the role of motherhood. It seems as if every year I look back and think of how much I learned and how much I still have to learn. Thank goodness perfection is not required in order to raise a family, I am so far from it!
As I view the role that the world has shaped for a woman, I am eternally grateful that a loving God has reached deep down in my heart and told me that it is good to be different from the worldly definition.While it is encouraging to see woman who are viewed as equals to men, which I believe is from God, it is disheartening to see woman so caught up in being "strong" that they lose their tender, nurturing nature. Women are accomplishing so much and contributing great things around the world and yet the view of a woman sacrificing her life for her family has somehow been twisted into something belittling and weak. Yet, I know of no other sacrifice that has the power to shape the world and bring such complete happiness than the power a mother holds in her hands. It isn't always natural or easy to remember this, and I have been guilty many times of losing sight of what I really want to accomplish in this life. Maybe it is the fact that I am entering a new stage of life and my babies are beginning to leave the nest and shape their own futures so I can reflect and see how every little choice adds up to something big. How I would love to be able to go back and change so many of the little choices that I made. I suppose that is all part of the plan though that we will learn as we live.

Here is a tribute to just a few of the women and future mothers in my life that have taught me so much about Mothering: My Mom: Sacrifice and duty to care for her five children, especially on her own. Mom Bryson: calmness and patience. My sister in law: organization. Laura: Speak to your children the way Jesus would appreciate. Amanda: Endure to the end, never give up. Emma: laugh and be silly. Kelly O: fill your home with the Spirit. Sis Sullivan: Love others and be a Mom to all those around you. Rhonda: laughter and open communication. Stacy: fun and recreation and take lots of pictures. Jolene: Teaching our children is a joy. Jackie: Consistency and faith. Joni: Motherhood is sacred. Cindy: Love them the way that they are. Joyce: Reach out and keep hope. LeeAnna: Sacrifice and trials can bring great blessings and peace. Collette: Time flies, appreciate every moment now. Jolynne: Service is the key to happiness, happiness is a choice. Ann: Family is more than your own children. Betty: Being a grandmother is an extension of motherhood. Kathy: Hard work is good for the soul. Grandma Holt: Take time to gather together. Grandma Fenton: Motherhood extends beyond this life.

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