Everyone always says, the older you get, the more you appreciate your parents. I’d say that’s a true statement. For me, I would add another layer. The older I get, the less I take for granted the memories we get to make and the more I savor the time, the wisdom, and the guidance I receive from both my mom and mom-in-love.
I’ve wanted to be a mom for as long as I can remember. While God has blessed me with an amazing husband to share life together, and three kids here (and one in Heaven), I’ve had to add a few other titles behind my name as well. In the last few years, as two of our kids have switched from teenagers to young adults, my relationship with them is also changing. And once again, I find myself treasuring the time we have together, not taking for granted the memories we get to make, the laughter we get to share, and the time we get to spend together.
Today, on Mother’s Day, I’m thankful for the time we have to spend with our moms. Reminiscing about past fun, creating new memories currently, and the anticipation of future memories to come.
I have been blessed by two mothers who love God, love family, and have taught me to love others well through their examples.
I’m also blessed by kids who love their grandparents, honor me as their mom, and want to spend time together.
To those of us who’s moms are still around – may we savor the times we have and intentionally make memories together.
To those of us who’s moms are no longer physically present – know that they are proud of you and love you. What’s one memory you have where you felt your mom’s love?
To those whose memories of their moms aren’t healthy or loving – I’m so sorry. Please know that God was there with you during those times and ask Him to show you how He was taking care of you when it hurt the most. Make the choice to forgive your mom. It’s more for you than for her.
Happy Mother’s Day to my mom and mom-in-love. I’m truly blessed to be your daughter. And I’m blessed with three kids who love me and give me more grace than I deserve.
© Cheri Swalwell 2021
Even when she was alive, I hated Mother’s Day. I “faked it” for 30 years in the pulpit for both it and Father’s Day but this year, maybe with the pandemic I just literally didn’t give it any energy except to delete EVERY email with it as the subject.
My Mother is still alive and she still loves us unconditionally and fights for her family and as much independence as she can muster since she has mobility issues, Lupus and Dermatomyositus. God blessed her by letting her be able to take care of her 3 kids and husband for many years ago and saved the flare ups for her well… older years. I’ve got so many memories of my Mother.
Although Mother’s Day has been very different than how we would normally celebrate it, My sisters and I still found a way to celebrate our Mother and her Love.
I’m so glad, Crystal, you and your sisters are able to celebrate your mom in creative ways despite the differences. What a beautiful tribute you wrote to her here!
Thank You.
We all do it creatively but in difference ways and that’s the best thing I think.