With Mother's Day just around the corner, I think this is a good time to share a lesson from my mother that actually stuck (as opposed to those that didn't stick. I'm afraid she'll have to share that list!)
The lesson I have in mind isn't something she said as much as it is how she lives...
"...children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God." ~ 1 Timothy 5:4
Maybe it was because she came from a large family, or the fact that she held the position as middle child in that family, or perhaps it was her upbringing, but my mother has always lived out the importance of family.
Here she is, in the white sweater, with all of her siblings. This must have been taken in the early 80's because I can still remember them lined up here in Aunt Carole's living room, belting out "We are Family" by Sister Sledge!
My dad, with just one sister (who for many years was married to my mother's brother), would constantly complain about Mom's family "rallying" at every crisis, and that's exactly what they do. Whenever there's a trial or catastrophe, they're there for each other. Personally, I'll take "rallying" over isolation any day.
Just yesterday we were leaving the funeral home headed to the cemetery when she saw my aunt getting in her car. Before we knew it, Mom was out of our car and over at hers, making sure she wasn't riding to her daughter's graveside service alone. Mom springs into action before any of the rest of us have finished processing. She's all about family.
Lord, I thank you for allowing me to grow up with a mother. I can't imagine what my life would have been like had cancer been victorious and taken her when I was so young (and twice afterwards!) Help me to follow her example in making family a priority.
Lisa
Enjoy this blast from the past!
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Great post, Lisa!
I remember many family times when we all gathered. Sometimes for a picnic and other times for a retreat or reunion as we camped. Then there were holidays too. Thank you for stirring up some good memories of happy times. Your mother was a precious gift from God to her "family."
Thank you for sharing at Tell Me a True Story. Do return on Tuesday of next week to share again.
Blessings. Hazel
awesome post Lisa....love your words about your mom.
What a great example your mother was to her family and what a nice tribute this post is to her. Thank you for sharing.
Blessings,
Charlotte