A Mother's Love

At a funeral, expressions of love in the form of flowers are poured out in abundance. Across the altar, atop the casket, flowers represent the beauty of the love that we share for the person who has passed away. My family likes to quote the phrase, “I’ll take my flowers while I’m living,” meaning that we choose to celebrate and honor each other not just in death, but in life. I want to give my mother her flowers while she’s living and share exactly how she has been there for me.

As a single parent, my mother had to be both Mom and Dad to an inquisitive and energetic child. Since I had no brothers or sisters, she joined me time and time again for board games or to watch me play hopscotch or ride my bike. Make no mistake, she stayed on me regarding schoolwork and good behavior, too. She taught me discipline, compassion, respect, honesty and love. Because of that, we are great friends to this day.

As a child, I found her to be very supportive and constantly reliable. As an adult, I know that she endured financial hardships at times when I was young, but I would have never really known it. Even when times were toughest, she made sure that I was unaware. My mother simply allowed me to just be a kid while she dealt with the adult issues of life.

She has always given selflessly of her time, resources and love. My mom is a true example of sacrifice because she put her goals on hold until I reached mine. After making sure that I got through college, she decided to go back and finish her own degree.

Two months ago, I gave birth to my first child. It was then that I really had a chance to see exactly how supportive she is. My mother came over my house every day for two weeks after I came home from the hospital. She took care of everything for me so that I could heal and rest. She purchased groceries, brought dinner home, cleaned my house, helped care for my son, and so much more. Even now, she still washes and irons my son’s clothes so that I am not overwhelmed by the newness of motherhood. Her support has been immeasurable and invaluable. By being there for me after my son was born, my mother helped prepare me to be a good mother, too. When I look into his eyes, I understand why my mother is the way she is. I do not know if I could ever fully express my heart’s gratitude for having someone like her in my corner. It has helped shape the woman I am now and it influences who I will become in the future. I am eternally grateful that she has been there for me.


Dawn, MI
Posted: October 08, 2008

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