It’s been over 20 years now since I have been able to say Happy Mother’s Day to my MOM. Since I have been fortunate to have other MOMS in my circle of friends and relatives there has been no lack of people to say it to. Yet, your MOM is a special commodity.

Mom was not perfect. Unfortunately (or very fortunately) she was born human. GOD (LOVE) knows she tried. I remember MOM teaching me to iron because she got exhausted with all my changes of clothes. She taught me how to make sandwiches, because she knew (and probably hoped) that the days would come when self sufficient would be important. She was passionate about politics and she taught me about people and the structure of the true politics in her view of the world. She could not offer wealth, but she offered something much more important, encouragement. There is a saying I always attribute to my mother, “Dennis, no matter whether you like it or not, always eat the free food.” Truly she meant more than food placed before me at the homes of friends, relatives, even guests.

She meant the foods of relationship, caring, friendship and love. She meant “Never be discouraged by the gifts of life that are not always perfect. Enjoy each gift and be grateful for the opportunity to share of your own. Do not let unrealistic expectations tarnish your gifts. Appreciate the opportunity to treat others as mentors and learn from them, the rights, the wrongs, the passions, the fun, and be grateful for the opportunities when your perspective has confronted loss.

I am grateful every day knowing that the spirit of my MOM is available and around whenever I need it, whether requested or simply appearing in a remembrance. Be sure to acknowledge those about you today that give, share, and partake of a Mother’s Love on this special day of the calendar year.

Enjoy the day….. dennis