Mother's Day Musing

Since I became a mother, I've mostly hated Mother's Day. That's because I set myself up to be disappointed...year after year. I kept thinking the boys would realize how important it is to recognize what a fabulous mother they have and show their appreciation. Well, even if I was just a mediocre mother, didn't I deserve a little recognition? I mean, I always gave my mother meaningful gifts. Remember the year - I think it was for her birthday rather than Mother's Day - but anyway...

I COULD NOT wait to give her a fabulous bicycle-built-for-two. She didn't seem as excited as I thought she would be. She was pregnant with her 4th child and probably not in a bike-riding mood. How thoughtful of me (and the rest of us, I might add!)

We did enjoy some fun rides on that bike a few years later, peddling as fast as we could while the 3-legged dog nipped at our heels. So she was able to enjoy the bike.

Or how about the time someone asked me what her favorite food was. I said "Rice." I still remember her incredulous look, "Rice? Why would you say rice?" "Well, you always say you love rice. And you make it every Sunday."

When I think about it now, I have no idea what her favorite color was. Or her favorite food. I never asked her, to tell you the truth. But I know lots of things she loves. Every time I see a beautiful bird in my yard she's right there with me...telling me to be quiet so we can see it longer. Every time I'm with my children and grandchildren I think how proud she is of them...how much she loves them. She knows I love her outside of numbers because I told her many times, and I tried to show her.

Here's a picture of Mama, Daddy and me on the day I was baptized in the Episcopal church.

Even though it's not too clear, I love it because it shows what a southern belle Mama always was.

My sons have become more thoughtful, and they have married wonderful girls that remember me in thoughtful ways. I've already received gifts and cards in the mail that I will open on Sunday. Having a missionary makes Mother's Day one of the best days of the year for me...I'll get to talk to my baby that's all grown up now and inviting others to come to Christ.

I am sorry for the time I wasted being selfish and self-absorbed. I am forever grateful to be a mother. My mother taught me how fun it could be, and I'm glad for that, too. This Mother's Day will be as it should...filled with joy because of my "Angel Mother" and because of my opportunity to be Mom, Martha, and Mumsy to some of the most wonderful people in the world. I love you all outside of numbers!