My mother passed away in 2016. I’ve been thinking about her a lot lately. My mom wasn’t your typical, cookie cutter mother. She was wild and untamed, but also incredibly kind and generous. She wasn’t perfect, but I am so glad she was my mother.
My mom’s birthday falls on Mother’s Day this year. In her honor, I wanted to talk about some of the ways she helped me grow and develop as a person.
Never Give Up
My mom was a fighter. It seems like her entire life was an uphill battle for survival. But despite all of the things that were thrown at her (or that she brought upon herself), she never gave up. She lived in poverty, but I rarely heard her complain. She always managed to make the most out of every situation.
Make Sure Your Voice is Heard
My mother was a lot of things, but meek wasn’t one of them. She would defend her children and her family at all cost. I remember thinking that she was soooo embarrassing as a kid. As an adult, I now realize how precious it was to always have someone loving me, defending me, and cheering me on.
Have a Generous Heart
When I was growing up, my mom was always worried about paying the bills. But despite her financial struggles, she wouldn’t think twice about lending a helping hand to someone in need. We frequently had guests staying at our house – mainly family members who were down on their luck. My mom was always willing help.
Appreciate What You Have
My mom was always grateful. At the end of her life, things seemed to really go downhill. She was living in the housing projects, she had chronic health conditions, and she was repeatedly denied disability benefits. Yet every time we spoke, she would gush about her apartment, downplay her health issues, and continue trying to get approved for disability. It was amazing how optimistic she was during the hardest years of her life.
Family Matters Most
My mom made plenty of mistakes. She struggled with addiction, and didn’t always make the best decisions. But despite all of her drama, I always knew she wanted the best for me and my brothers. I never doubted her love. When I grew up and had my own children, my mom was there, showering my children with love and gifts. I think being a grandmother was her greatest joy in life.
My mom wasn’t your average mother, but she was still pretty amazing. I am grateful for all of the things she did for me, and for all of the sacrifices she made. She raised me to be strong and independent. And for that, I am forever grateful.