Happy Birthday Mom!

What do you give the woman that has everything?

Bravery, strength, tenacity, courage, an independent spirit, willpower and determination beyond most people, an unbelievable capacity to love others and expect nothing in return, and an ability to hear the voice of the Lord guiding her in her interactions with this world. These are my mothers personality traits. With traits such as these, what more could a person desire?

Mom,

We've been together for 30 years now. One year shy of half of your life. It has been a nice journey filled with so many highs and lows, times of sorrow and times of joy. It has been a great pleasure to be your companion on this journey of life as watching you learn and grow has brought about the same within myself. You have been a fine example of how to love what is in life no matter what circumstances arise. You have always found a way to live with grace. For that you should be so proud.

So does all of this mean that life was perfect, without flaw or blemish? Ha! I think we both know the answer to that question. You and I have had quite the coming together, growing apart and then back together experience, and I am happy for every moment of that. The long hugs, the wiping away of tears, the laughter, the life lessons, the throwing things at one another, the mean words exchanged, the attempt to write you off for eternity, and then finally realizing that there are both wants and needs in life. You have always given me what I have needed, even when it has been the opposite of what I have wanted. That is called a spirit of service, because we both know that I have been blessed with your tenacity, independence, and willpower. You knew every time what crossing me would bring, and yet you did it anyway... That is love in its' truest sense. I am so proud of you mom.

So what can I give the woman who has everything? I think that the answer is simple. Just give back what has been received:

Unconditional love

So greatful to you Mom for everything you have done.

Happy birthday,

Matt D