THINGS I LEARNED & RECEIVED FROM MOM

After a long struggle with her health, my Mom went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 17. We are sad, but relieved she is no longer suffering. Sometimes we don’t realize just how our parents have shaped who we are. But lately I’ve been reflecting on some of the things I’ve received from my Mom. Here are just a few of those things . . .

The value of hospitality – We grew up setting one more place at the table, regularly having visitors in our home and entertaining them with food, music and fellowship. Today, hospitality is a big part of Cindy’s and my ministry.

The value of conserving – Because Mom grew up poor, she was always saving and re-using things. Although it seemed extreme at times, it taught me to not be wasteful, which has become even more important as we live among people who have so much less than me.

Appreciation of gardening and cultivation – Although as a child I hated having to work in the flower beds and garden, it taught me to love the art of sustaining plant life, creating beauty with creation, and having my hands in the soil. It teaches me about God and his ways, and is part of mankind’s original responsibility from God – to cultivate and care for the earth.

Tomatoes, sour cream and yogurt – Because Mom insisted on us trying and eating foods that we thought we didn’t like, I developed a taste for a number of foods I thought I hated as a child. Tomatoes, sour cream and yogurt are just a few.

Weekly piano lessons – Because she consistently drove me to piano lessons and waited for me to finish week after week, insisted that I practice every day, and appreciated my playing, I developed a gift that is an integral part of who I am today.

Attachment to coffee – Coffee was always part of Mom’s life, no matter what she was doing. Good or bad, somehow I inherited the same habit and reputation.

A love of cooking – Mom was a great cook and frequently cooked for much more than her immediate family. As I was often enlisted to help out in the kitchen, I learned to appreciate the art of creating good food that blesses others, body and soul.

You can always come home! – Whether I lived an hour away or on the other side of the world, Mom never stopped asking me when I was going to come home. And I knew there would always be an open door, a delicious meal and a bed waiting for me. Now I try to communicate that same loving security to my own sons.

I could say much more, but I’ll just say this. “Thank you, Mom, for raising me well.

And welcome home!”

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