The Blessing of Understanding

Wednesday last week was my Mother's birthday.  It still seems so odd not to be able to call her or send a present with a card.  She stepped into heaven 2 years and 10 months ago and left a big whole in my life.

Though she wouldn't want to be back here facing worldly challenges, her family misses her and is still learning to cope with the void she has left.

At present I am confronted with uncertainty on many fronts: unemployment, leaving my home and two cracked ribs; and so I've been thinking about how my Mom coped with years of pain and unhappiness.

Above all else, my Mom was a survivor!

She endured long lasting emotional and physical pain better than anyone I know.  And as I age, and deal with similar trials and testing, I appreciate more what she went through. 

Isn't that usually the case?

How quick we are to form judgements or strong opinions about another's responses to life's difficulties, when we have no idea the depth of their struggles or the toll their trials have taken on their souls! 

"LORD, help me to grow in compassion
for all I meet. 

May I never minimize a person's struggle,

especially when I have never experienced a similar trial. 

Please give me Your eyes
to see the heart of those who cross my path

and Your patience to minister grace and care."

A Winner!

Early this morning, Hubby drew from the names of contributors in my first Give-a-way.  Out of a pretty kitchen bowl, one name was selected...
I'm delighted to announce that he drew out Rebecca's name from Life & Godliness.
What fun!   She has fond memories of a special relative who used to play the accordion and we are excited to send her off one of my books with Hubby's accordion music.

To the other participants, thank you for sharing your thoughts about why motherhood matters.
Each of you shared uplifting, encouraging insights into the most important job of all...nurturing and educating the next generation!  Thank you for caring about motherhood and for loving your own children so much!

Maternal Blessings and Joy for the Journey!

Motherhood Matters Give-A-Way

Mama Manatee swims by to announce my first Give-A-Way!

 Motherhood comes in all shapes and sizes.

 But it always requires care and protection.

When the temperature plummeted last month, this Mama Manatee led her calf into the warmer waters of Blue Springs State Park in Orange City, Florida. 
There they frolicked for many to admire, reminding me to take time to be playful with my children and grandchildren!

*Give-a-way***Give-a-way***Give-a-way*

From now until midnight on Monday, January 10th, leave a comment that starts with the words: Motherhood matters...  and your name will be entered into a drawing for a complimentary copy of my children's book Grandpa's Magical Accordion.   Comments must be shorter than 50 words to qualify!  Invite friends to visit and leave a comment, I'm excited to read your thoughts.