Today was My Mother's Birthday

[Dad]

I wrote something for her, because I didn't have a prepared gift.  Just thought I would share.  She did love it, and it brought her to tears actually.  Hopefully you all don't mind.

 

"Mother. That word gets taken for granted. A lot. Not just by me, but by many others. But specifically regarding today, and most everyday, I was and still am reminded of what that word means. When it's spoken, it usually refers to a female who gives birth and cares for a child. But that's not what it means to me.

 

Mom. That word is what speaks for me. The way I see it, ANYONE, can be a mother. But only one like you, can be a mom.

 

Ma, I've been on God's green Earth a little over 22 years. And still, I cannot understand or appreciate your level of experience, determination, love, and care. Not yet. Even though I see it in your words, your actions, and your thoughts, every day, it still surprises me. You took this hard headed, lost, confused, dumbfounded, and let me reiterate HARD-HEADED boy, and you teach him something new, every day. I understand now why you would get disappointed in me when I fail. 

 

You put a LOT of time and love into MY life. You've neglected YOURSELF, time and time again, providing for ME. Someone like ME.

When I don't DESERVE it. When I don't APPRECIATE it. When I should be lying out in the cold, you instead wrap me in a blanket of your LOVE and you keep me. You are the DEFINITION, to me, of what a MOM is. 

 

You are one of the strongest people I know. You are MY mother. And I thank God that He blessed me with someone like YOU. You hold true to the Christian faith and you do it more than justice. If anyone could experience what I have experienced, they too would know. And I have to admit, I still don't know why. But I thank you.

 

The Pastor often says to, "walk like Jesus, so that others can see Him in you". You do that EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. When it's hard to get up and out of bed, you pull strength out of thin air, and turn it into progress.

 

Momma, what I'm trying to say is this: Despite how you may get down, keep fighting the good fight. You are a ROCK. And I guess I'm a momma's boy. No matter how that reputation may proceed me, I love you. Now and always. Happy birthday."

Take it as you will.  Love you too YCM.

[White Hollow]

Your mom isn't the only one moved to tears. Thanks for sharing, you are a really caring child :)