Some of the Things My Mother Has Given Me

Today is Mother's Day.

And I could not think of a better post than one dedicated to

the woman who gave me life: my mother.
Today, I am thankful for my mother.

Over the years, my mother has given me many things.

And all of those things have shaped me into the woman I am today.

Some things she has given me:

1. The chance to be born, and live. 

And grow up.

To chase dreams.

To love.

She's given me a future.

Sadly, this is a chance denied to many. 

But I was blessed to be born into a family that truly wanted me.

So, I don't take this for granted. Ever.

2. Her brown eyes.

My mother's eye color has faded as she's aged,

but she used to have the same brown eyes I now have.

These eyes are the ones that allow me to see my loved ones,

witness miracles,

appreciate the beauty of God's creation,

and take in everything around me.

3. Her strength. 

It's quiet and unassuming.

Like a river.

 But it has the capacity to move mightily downstream.
She has showed me how to be strong without being harsh.
I can have a gentle strength in times of trouble.

4. Her compassion.

I always tell my mother she has this wonderful thing called the 'Ministry of Tears'.

When others ache, she aches with them.

When they weep, she weeps.

And when they are able rejoice after a rough patch, she rejoices.

All of these are accompanied by her tears.

She truly is the most gentle and caring soul I've ever met.
Though I have a long way to go, her compassion has softened me.

5. Her love for life.

My mother loves to laugh.

And we spend most of our days laughing. 

Bad days are rare in her world.

That has spilled over and touched my life.

I do have bad days.

Then I turn it around and make sure I remember why I'm here.

Then I smile and laugh.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

And thank you for all of the things you have given to me.