Lesson’s I Have Learned From My Mother

Yesterday (Sunday, February 22^nd), our family celebrated my mother’s 92^nd Birthday!  It’s truly an amazing accomplishment considering the doctor told her parents they would never raise her because of health concerns!  To be honest, she is healthier than any of the family members – young and old! Can you imagine living 92 years and ONLY being admitted to the hospital to give birth to your children?  Amazing!

I would like to share some life lessons my mother has taught me over the years:  

1.       Always wear clean and not wholly underwear – no need to explain that one folks!

2.       If you have soap and water you can always have a clean house – and always make your bed when you get up.  

3.       No matter how poor you are (and we have been poor many times) – you can still dress nice (even in hand-me-downs), be clean, and present yourself with grace, be respectful and honorable.

4.       Always, always, did I say always - be respectful to your elders.  

5.       Whatever you do – whether at home, school, or work – always do the best you can with what gifts you have been given.

6.       Be thankful for everything and say your prayers every day.  

7.       And though there are more lessons I have learned (some I cannot repeat!  HA!) – I will save the best for last – ALWAYS EAT CHOCOLATE EVERY DAY!  That’s right folks – As mom says, “When I die, put a Hershey Kiss in my mouth!”  Oh and when we visit her grave we are to bring chocolate – not flowers!  

Yes, my mom is truly amazing, stubborn, caring, independent (at times to a fault), creative, funny (always ready with a joke to share), honorable, supportive and loving just to name a few.  Mom has not had an easy life at all, but she never has used her circumstances as an excuse for anything either.  She may drive her family crazy at times – but I think its pay-back; my siblings and I were no angels either, although, my halo is just slightly crooked. HA!   But we love her more than words can describe.  I thank the Lord daily for my mother and count it a blessing to still have her around at 92.  Yep, she’s a keeper!   Happy Birthday!  

Proverbs 16:31- Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.

Ephesians 6:2-3 – Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), so that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth.