Even though I’m a man, and I’m a father, I think I know a lot about mothers.
It’s not because I read it in a book, took a class in college, or watched a documentary on motherhood.
It’s because I was raised by my mother, Joan Cummings, and I’m married to Julie Hamilton, the mother of our three sons.
Some might quibble with me about this, but there’s no way I could have been around two better moms. My mom wasn’t perfect – and neither is Julie – but both could deliver master classes on the art of nurturing and raising children.
Good mothers see the responsibility as a gift and a privilege. They may have tough days, but they don’t complain about being a mom – they see it as a blessing: “Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3).
The best moms gush over art projects, put pictures you draw and write on the fridge, even work framed by popsicle sticks. They also have a keepsake box to save things of yours, like a lock from your first haircut or a tooth or two.
Moms are good bakers and cooks who let you “help” them in the kitchen, even though by doing so, they can be guaranteed the job will take twice as long. They let you lick the whippers and eat freshly baked cookies, even if it’s close to dinner.
The best moms love every present you give them, even a pair of 7-Up earrings that you bought for a few dollars at the school Christmas fair. She even wears them outside, conveniently not telling you she switched them out in the car on the way to the PTA meeting.
A great mom has a good, distinctive laugh. Of course you enjoy it when she chuckles at your jokes, but it’s reassuring and comforting when you hear her laughing in the kitchen with your father.
The best moms love the public library. They allow you to get your own card and encourage you to read after the things you love, like sports, newspapers and radio. They also let you stay up a little later if you’re reading in bed.
Loving moms talk to you about the Lord long before you really know what it all means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. She reads from the Bible, does morning devotions and gives thanks to God for everything. You often catch her reading the bible in a quiet room with a faint light.
Good moms model what it means to be a faithful church member, whether it’s singing in the choir or volunteering to help decorate for Advent, Christmas or Easter. They also seem to be the last to leave the service because there’s always someone to catch up with and inquire about.
The best moms fill the home with music and art, encourage you to play an instrument, or use your creativity for good.
You like to see your mom smile a lot, especially when you come inside after being outside. When you call her on the phone, she always seems grateful it’s you.
Good moms can get mad, but they don’t hold a grudge after an apology and hug.
It’s the wise mom who writes notes you can keep, who remembers to take pictures – and who reminds you she loves you almost every chance she gets.
The best mothers know they can’t be with you forever, so they leave you with a blessing as the sun begins to set.
Happy Mother’s Day.
Image from Getty.
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