In my last blog entry, I recounted a few of the things I’ve learned from my fabulous mom. I’ve learned so much, though, that I felt I needed to add a few more that have shaped my LDS views on motherhood, selflessness, and church service.
I learned how to be a mother from Mom (skills that I’ll soon be using). I learned what nurturing is at the hand of my mother. She’s the glue that makes our family function and every member feel fulfilled and loved. As the second oldest child of seven (and the oldest at home from age 12 on), I had a lot of opportunity to learn firsthand how to be a good mother. I watched as she listened, counseled, then stepped back while we made our own decisions.
Over the years, I’ve had snippets of conversations with Mom about being a mother. She’s shared some disappointments, some joys, and some insights that I would never have thought about if I hadn’t had those conversations. I value each of them, and know that I carry with me some profound truths about motherhood shared in tender moments. I treasure those truths and those moments.
I continue to learn a lot about selflessness from Mom. As I grow older and as I start on new paths in life, I’m amazed at how much she gives and how willingly she gives it to her family. Just this past weekend she willingly gave me her time and, perhaps more importantly, her attention as I needed help that I wouldn’t have allowed anyone else to give me.
And I’ve learned a lot about faith from Mom. I have always admired how strong Mom’s testimony is. She gained it young, and has kept it strong and unwavering. As a child I learned from her testimony, and she encouraged all of us to find our own. She taught us through consistent scripture study, music, and daily lessons in gospel principles. She taught us through example.
Her dedication to the church and her own personal devotion has been an amazing example in my life. She gives everything 110% especially her callings. I’ve never seen my mom do her calling half way. It’s always her best. It’s always a priority. It’s always for the Lord. It’s something I aspire to emulate.
I can’t adequately describe the innumerable other ways my mom has taught me; all I can say is this: Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you!