Happy Mother's Day!

As we celebrate this day, my thoughts always turn to my mom, as I'm sure is true for most of you.

I wish I had appreciated her more while she was alive.

She had a third-grade education, but a Ph.D. in common sense.

For years, I thought she was old and crazy. What she said went in one ear and out the other.

When I finally had sense enough to realize the treasure that she was (when I became a mom), I couldn't get enough of conversations with her.  I didn't want them to end.

She had a tough life.

Her mom died when she was seven, and she went to live with her grandmother, who died when she was thirteen.  From that time until she got married, she moved from pillar to post, from one relative to the next, working as their maid for her room and board.  No wonder she married one of the first guys who showed an interest in her, anything to escape life as she knew it.

The thing is though; she went from the frying pan into the fire.  The good life she was hoping for did not materialize.  She was now the wife of a drunk, a mean one to boot.

Once my brothers and I came along, we were her absolute focus.  She was bound and determined that we would have a better life than she did, in spite of the alcoholism that permeated our upbringing.

I asked her why she put up with my father and the hardships that entailed, and she said she stayed for us (her kids).  I remember thinking then that I would NEVER do that.

Never say never . . .

Because that's exactly what I did.

I stayed in a marriage long after its expiration date because I wanted my boys to have their father in their lives for as long as possible.

Her example helped me to get through that.

She was the strongest, kindest woman I have ever known.

God knows we didn't have much, but if she knew of someone in need, she lent a hand, every single time.

Was she perfect?

Far from it, but I know now that everything she did was from a good place, a good heart.

If you're lucky enough to still have your mom in your life, appreciate her, and not just on Mother's Day.

She may not be perfect, but if she's there, active in your life, she's trying to be.

Thank her while you can.