August 20 is my mother’s 8oth birthday. Our family, most all of us, are gathering at mom and dad’s house to celebrate. We’ll enjoy being together, eating and reminiscing. Here’s an open “email” to my mom.
Dear Mom,
This Saturday, August 20 is the day! Happy Birthday to you! You are absolutely the best. I love you so very much.
While dad was the preacher—a purveyor of words, a sermon-deliverer, a leader in the church – you were the one who made some of the greatest impressions on me as a child. Among dad’s many aphorisms, one stands out: More is caught than taught! I wish I had a nickel for every time I heard him say it.
I know he believed it—that’s why he married YOU.
This I know – as an adult and, certainly as a parent (now grandparent), it’s not hard to find fault. Whether it is in ourselves or others, we are all experts on weaknesses.
You, on the other hand, never majored on such. Instead you seemed to have the ability to see clearly the strengths in others, even if they lay dormant. What I learned most from you was this belief and trust in the future, especially in me.
It takes a special kind of character to discern the good, to celebrate strengths, to draw out the positive. As I remember and know you, even now, you are just that kind of mom. I am so thankful.
We, your children, were so blessed. I hope you know how much you contributed to each of us – Phil, Tim, Kim, and me. I hope you don’t carry around any regret when it comes to that – especially in regard to Tim. You were a wonderful mother, who loved at your very best.
Looking back now, I see how you stirred up God-given ingredients in each of us. You saw them first. With a kiss on the forehead, a quick and ready smile, and a patient hand you helped us see them as well.
Thanks Mom! Happy 80th Birthday! I love you!!!
Billy
Question: What gifts did you receive from your parents?
Amen…Have a blessed Birthday