For many years, Mother's Day was not a day that I looked forward to. I felt that I always fell short, I didn't measure up and that everyone else was a much better mother. Their children were almost perfect and very obedient - but my sons seemed to be always testing me and the boundaries that our family had set. Sacrament Meetings on Mother's Day focused on the virtures of motherhood and spoke of the wonderful mothers who never got angry, never got tired, and always knew the right things to say or do - some times I would leave those meeting in tears. As I reflect back on those days, I realize how short sited and self focused I was. I was and continue to be a 'work in progress'. I didn't realize how truly blessed I was.
Today I would like to set the record straight and give thanks for the wonderful blessing that has been mine to be an earthly mother to Britton and Patrick. They have blessed and enriched my life beyond measure. We have certainly had our struggles and at times I would have gladly taken away their 'agency' so that I could make their choices. But that is not God's plan. It has been hard to watch as they suffer the consequences of poor decisions - but it has also been an opportunity for their personal growth. I am proud of the fine young men they have become and for the privilege it has been to have them in our home and be such an integral part of my life. I can only imagine what our Heavenly parents must feel as they watch us struggle, grow, experience heartbreak, or the thrill of accomplishment during our earthly journey.
I am thankful for the knowledge I have that we can be an 'Eternal Family' and that the love that binds us together will not end when this life is over. My sons are my greatest accomplishment and my greatest joy! Thank guys...
I am also thankful for my own mother. She has been a tremendous example and friend to me and I am so grateful that I am her daughter. I hope I have made her proud.
This Mother's Day I express my gratitude and recognize how empty my life would be without my mother, my sons, my sweet grandchildren, an outstanding daughter-in-law and a wonderful husband who has helped make this possible.
