A younger me in the company of Mom and Grandma greatness.
Mother’s Day is a tough one to get right sometimes; it has been a lifelong learning curve that I’m just now beginning to understand. For years, I thought the celebration was about the gift or flowers, about matching a material gesture to the heart of the woman I call Mom. And while such things are and were appreciated and cherished wholeheartedly, my mother would always say, “You shouldn’t have. You know I’m happy with just a card.”
My siblings and I never believed her; a card couldn’t possibly be enough. Now much wiser (as seen in my greying temples and pensive visage), I see that she was indeed telling the truth (as mothers should).
Whether you buy or make a card, this is truly a case where it’s the thoughts that count. If you’re having trouble, think of what you’d say to a friend in describing your Mom and why she’s special to you. And while there are no doubt volumes to tell, keep it simple, earnest and something that will brighten her day, this day and every time she rereads it (and she will).
The idea of setting aside one day to celebrate my mother falls short. Though a nice societal nod, the occasion does not fully define her or live up to what she’s done over a lifetime with aplomb, fortitude, perseverance, grace and humor. Mom’s deserve our hearts every day–our kind words, support, attention and respect.
So on this Mother’s Day, I plan to celebrate my Mom every day by living the lessons she taught me every day: words trump trinkets; listening outshines lecturing; actions eclipse intentions and there’s no substitute for heart and home.”Happy Mother’s Day!
Boz and Gracie agree (and also feel the love).
My sister continues the tradition by joining the ranks of World’s Greatest Moms
Tom, you were such a good looking young man. Wow!
Thanks Sylvie, amazing what thirty years will do to the old mugshot. 😉
Tom, you handsome devil!!! You have a beautiful family.
Lovely thoughts and memories, Tom. You all look great … then and now. Very sweet to acknowledge your sister, too. Moms do make the world go around!
Shirley
Worth writing again…and living everyday! Thank you my dear friend. Much love to you and a hats off to Tom’s Mom!
” I plan to celebrate my Mom every day by living the lessons she taught me every day: words trump trinkets; listening outshines lecturing; actions eclipse intentions and there’s no substitute for home.” THANK YOU!
It’s amazing to me how we all seem to realize as we grow older that our parents were right about so much…some things really only come with age, I guess 🙂
Whoa! Back in the day you could not be touched
without ‘pot holders’! Sizzle lean 😉 Between your
‘cover’ and the wonderful ‘chapters’ that make up
you and your life make for a very fine read indeed!
Your beautiful mom did a wonderful job and we
are all enjoying the benefits of this today 🙂
Remember Tom, like fine wine you just get better!
Your Mom looks lovely and she certainly seems to have done a good job – she raised a son who seems like a really nice guy.
Who needs honey when Tom is so sweet. Great shot of Linda and her two. Mom, you are quite a “looker” yourself!
I admire your loving family Tom and hope that my son turns into the thoughtful and caring man you seem to be, especially in regards to your mom and sister…..!
Tom, you make me hungry for the simple life. I can feel the peace you have found. Loved all of the beautiful remarks about your mom and seeing Linda’s picture with her children. Bob,
Don and I had a lot of empty years with our cousins but have never forgot them. I loved your grandmother, my Aunt Verna.
Love to you,
Jeanette