- Maybe a moment of peace?
- A long bath while ALONE in the bathroom?
- To only have to dress one body in the morning?
My mother, the heroine of Brave Face, turns 89 today! And she would tell you that motherhood is hard. Sometimes it’s made more difficult simply because a mother might believe the hype that says she deserves a day when she is the center of attention, be it Mother’s Day, her birthday, or another day, but it doesn’t or can’t happen for one reason or another.
Of course, I’m very aware of those who wish they were mothers, but can’t be; those who lost a child; those whose mothers were less than loving; and those who have lost their mother. I’m grateful that I’m not in any of the above categories. My children are grown, and while they seem to enjoy my company, they never need me to wipe their noses. Their children are a different story… My mother wipes her own nose, too.
Two of my daughter’s children
Joking aside, whatever our personal circumstances, we all have/had mothers; and our mothers, whether natural, spiritual or adoptive, probably gifted us with their wise counsel. Therefore, I spent some time thinking about my mom and her various oft-repeated pieces of advice. Feel free to comment, letting me know what invaluable advice your mother might have given to you.
As a preview, here is the advice that totally changed what my life might have been:
- Make the most of what you have. If it is clean, tidy and decorated to the best of your ability, it will look good and make you happy.
- Enjoy who you have when you have them. Don’t waste your energy longing for those who aren’t there.
- Love your children passionately. Never stop, no matter what. Enjoy dates with them—even if they miss school! Also remember that you cannot be all your child needs, so be happy when other (trusted) adults minister to your kids. Return the favor.
Of course, I am sure much more was passed down, but these are what I remember. My plan is to post a bit more about how each impacted me over the next few weeks. Thanks, Mom.