Today is your birthday. And in honor of you, I am thinking of some treasured stories you've told me, stories that tell why I can be here writing this to you.
When you had two boys, quite far apart, everyone doubted whether you would have more children. You were so sure, though, you purchased a little dress and hung it up where you could see it and hope for your girls.
You finished your formal education, and then later wanted to apply for a nursing program. As you went to put your application in the mailbox, you had the impression that you could do the program, or you could have more children. And in that moment you turned from the mailbox, you sacrificed the career you wanted to bring us into the world. You are the ultimate example of selflessness and service.
Because of your example, I have always dreamed of being a Mother. By living your life the way you have, you've made it look like the most wonderful blessing any woman could have - to be a Mom.
Life has delivered some trials, difficult beyond words, to you, and I cannot fathom how you have shown such strength and fortitude and the ability to endure to the end.
I also can't think of a time you've said or done something negative toward another person. You have made each day, each moment, about someone else, in loving, teaching, and serving. You are the person I know who truly lives with Christlike charity. You are most deserving of recognition, but you live with humility. Now this day, your birthday, is about celebrating YOU.
I keep learning and learning from you. As we've approached your birthday, I have thought of all the Life Lessons you have taught me and continue to teach me. When I began to think of them, there was no end in sight. Through all the bowls of chicken soup and days of putting M&Ms on the piano so we would practice, from the summers of ISSI and trips across the country, to days of forgiving me for still learning, I am made from the lessons you have taught me.
Here are some of my favorites:
·
You don’t have to make a difference in every person’s life every day. But you
can make a difference in someone’s life
each day.
·
There is no such thing as boredom.
If we complained of being bored when we
were little, you would say that you could definitely “help” us out with that
–“Oh I can give you something to do. How about sweeping the floor?” The result
was that we learned to entertain ourselves.
And still, to this day, I’m never bored. Life
is just too exciting to waste any time being bored.
·
Let people make decisions for themselves, even
if you really know best. It’s a better way for them to be empowered in their
own learning.
Whenever I’ve had a major decision to make
and sought your help, you have assisted me in thinking through the options, but
always let me come to an answer myself.
·
Life isn’t fair, but we trust God anyway.
·
Practice (work) before you play. The only way to
develop your abilities is to invest a significant amount of time and effort.
Yes, I remember each time you said “Someday you’ll thank me.” Now here I am thanking you. Thank you.
Yes, I remember each time you said “Someday you’ll thank me.” Now here I am thanking you. Thank you.
·
Being an adult means having lots of things you
don’t want to do, but doing them anyway. Thanks for the heads up on that,
because it sure is true.
·
Age or status need not be barriers to
friendship.
·
Even if you don’t agree with someone’s
decisions, you can still love them for who they are. People should be accepted
and loved for where they are now, as well as where they are going. Be
comfortable with people who are different than you.
·
Teaching is primarily about listening.
·
Doing the things you love with the people you
love is far more important than wealth or being well-known. Life is made of
moments we share together.
·
And a home is made of Love + the Spirit.
Naturally, wherever you are, Mom, you take “home” with you. All of your
children (and grandchildren!) know this well.
I am so excited to keep learning from you –
forever!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
All my love,
Your little girl,
Rebecca
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