Faith, Family, Friends and Food

"God could not be everywhere, so he created mothers."
~Jewish Proverb

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A mother’s life is characterized by giving.  It’s a giving that is truly endless.   It’s a giving that takes many, many forms.  From the very moment of conception, a mother gives of herself.   The embryo is physiologically dependent upon the mother.   It’s the mother who sustains the life of her child.  At birth, the dependency changes from a physiological dependency to an emotional, social, and physical dependency.  Webster’s Dictionary defines dependent as,” Relying on another for support.”  In order to satisfy the definition, it requires that someone receive support and someone give support.  The unbridled support that a mother gives to her child is called “Motherly Love.”  It’s the unselfish giving by a mother that reflects the essence of motherly love. "Motherly love" demands time, attention, and sacrifice.

My mother could easily be the “poster mom” for “Motherly Love.”  Her whole life has been characterized by the giving of herself.  She has put the needs of her children, husband and family well above her own needs.  The love and support that she has provided to us is immeasurable.  She’s always there when you need her and she always seems to say the just the right things at just the right time.  My mother’s presence in a room brings about a peaceful and warm feeling.  It's a feeling that everything is the way it supposed to be.  When I think about it, it shouldn’t be that surprising; being that she’s the one that gave me my life, sustained my life, and has always done her best meet all of my needs, whatever they may be.  No wonder things just seem to be right when she’s around.

My mother has demonstrated time after time that her family always comes first.  Perhaps, the most poignant example is my mother’s support of my father.  My father has achieved great success and accolades as a coach.  If it wasn’t for my mother’s support, this never would have been possible.  My mother has always encouraged and supported my father to pursue has passion.  Perhaps one of the most difficult roles to accept in life is that of a coach’s wife.  Often times, a wife can take the proverbial, “backseat” to the sport or the program.  My mother has never made it about her.  Rather, her life is about her children, husband and family.

My mother has given me so many things, both tangible and intangible, that I couldn’t begin to comprehend the extent of them.  Perhaps one of the best gifts my mother has given me is her value system.  The gift of her values has taught me what is really important in life.  The gift of a value cannot break, nor be replaced with a shiny, newer model.  Mom's gift of values will remain with me and be the focal point of my life for the rest of my life.  Her values, simple: Faith, Family, Friends and Food.

To Mom, the most important thing in life is your relationship with God.  My mother raised us in a home where faith has been the center of our lives.  Mom knew the importance of passing the gift of faith onto her children.

To Mom, your commitment to your family is second only to your relationship to God.  My mother has given to our family unselfishly and tirelessly. Mom has taught us that your family is your “rock.” Mom knew the importance of passing family values on to her children.

Of lesser importance, but still important nonetheless to Mom, is friends and food.  My mother knows the value that friends can add to you life. She loves spending time with her friends.  In most instances, mom is usually the life of a party.  In her mid-seventies, she still has swing in her step and has not lost her passion for life.  It always brings a smile to my face to see a woman who has given so much of herself to make the best of everything and enjoying what life has to offer.

Plainly put, my Mother is one heck of a cook.  She puts the meaning in “Mom’s home cooking.”  To Mom, good food represents the fruits of our labors.  The food serves as a reminder to us to be thankful for our bounty.  Mom has passed on to us the importance of friendship and the breaking of bread with family and friends.

Mom, I will never be able to repay you for all that you have done for me, all the lessons that you’ve taught me, and the love and support you have given to me. Mother, please understand that the very best way for me to describe my love for you is as follows: For as much as you love me, I in return love you same, and maybe just a little bit more!

HAPPY MOTHER"S DAY MOM!

To all you mothers, have a wonderful Mother’s Day.
A mother’s love truly does make the world go round.

It's Your Life: Live it, Love it, Celebrate it!
MJD