I was one of those kids that could make a mother reconsider having any more offspring.  I was just born opinionated, stubborn, and strong-willed.

Fortunately for me I was blessed with a mother who was none of those things. Her personification of grace, mercy, and compassion is what inspires me to this day to be a better wife and mother.

I’m certain I didn’t appreciate her amazing qualities as a child other than to recognize that there were times her grace was the only reason I was still breathing.  As a mother who has faced some pretty tough challenges with my own children, I have come to the conclusion that my mom is a saint.

I also know that, even though I am no longer a child, she has never stopped being my mom.  During one particularly dark time as I went through my divorce, I felt so very alone and unloved. On one particularly discouraging day, I was surprised by a package that arrived in the mail. It was a stuffed bear and the card read “Bethany, I gave this bear 10 good hugs to send to you. Love & Kisses, Mom.”

That was almost 8 years ago but I keep that bear where I can see it every day as a simple reminder of how even the simplest of gestures can make a difference in someone’s life.

Mom, thank you for being such a great model for this opinionated, stubborn, and strong-willed child to follow.  I have tried hard to love my children like you loved me. And while I have not always done so perfectly, I’m blessed to have had your example to guide me.