Mother Teresa

I really liked this quote and the new perspective it gives to loving our neighbor. 

"At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made . . . We will be judged by ‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat, I was naked and you clothed me, I was homeless and you took me in.’ Hungry not only for bread—but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing—but naked for human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks—but homeless because of rejection.” ~ Mother Teresa

My Mother

Lots of people have this misconception about Marriage, Family, and Human Development classes-- we rarely if EVER talk about specific practices we really only talk about principles. In my efforts to complement my mother on her practices that teach principles-- I didn't do so well. My classes have opened up my eyes what it takes to be a good mom... and what an amazing mother I have. 

I learn the principles, but I don't have ideas on good practices... until I began to notice {a fraction} what my mother does... that teaches me important principles.

I began to realize all the little details that add up to make her one amazing mother.

* * *

My mom stayed up late and played the "reserve your seat for the fourth of July parade" game so we could have front row seats under the trees for shade and close to home.

She got up and made breakfast for everyone and even the most delicious banana bread you will ever eat!! She even did the dishes and tidied up the kitchen all while she let us get some very needed sleep. 

She went and got special food at the grocery store so we could have food that was just a little healthier and tasted a little better. She remembered to get the drinks and waters in the cooler and even added ice so we wouldn't overheat during the parade. 

She took a moment to help the neighbors.

Then she went and parked the car by our parade spot and so after the parade we wouldn't have to carry all of the blankets, chairs and coolers back... ... and then she walked with her hurt knee all the way back home.

After the parade she left and reserved the best seats in town to watch the fireworks and spent a good amount of time making sure the angles were all perfect so we would have the best seats in the house. 

{And it is still morning.}

* * *

Mom,

You show me that being a mother is one of the greatest thing I will ever do in this life because you have made it one of the greatest things in your life. 

You were always there with great enthusiasm at my track meets, award ceremonies or banquets.  You have always been my greatest fan, cheering me on the front row. I will always be able to pick out your voice in the crowd.

You have taught me to love education and to pursue my dreams. Because you believed in me, I believe in myself. You teach me, by example, to love others.

And although life can be really hard, you get up and fight each morning because life is worth it.

You taught me what it means to have faith. You taught me to forgive and the importance of forgiveness. You taught me to do my best (and what it means to do my best).

You taught me that life can go in many directions-- and even if you find yourself in a circumstance that you don't like-- things change.

Because of you, I am who I am and where I am today. Your selfless sacrifices have made such an impact on my life. You strengthened me during my darkest hours so I could feel the sunshine of today. 

Thank you. You are my angel and best-friend.

I love you Mom!

I Thank You Syd

I called Syd up to tell him about my luncheon with the Sandorf family; I knew he would think that was awesome because he has been there before and he could relate. I also wanted to make him proud of the little girl he raised. I also wanted to tell him something that I learned/ realized in my classes when we would talk about transitional characters. I could never picture myself as the one turning the table 180 degrees, even though the outcome would seem so. I feel like my contribution is small {comparatively}.  I knew this was because of Syd {the physical affection and better communication}. Syd took on everything and through it all was able to turn the trajectories. I called him to thank him for all what he did and for having courage and strength to do so. 

He also surprised me by complementing  me on my successes. He really put it in perspective for me. To summarize he said:
            A girl making it through through multiple dysfunctional families... is rare          
            A girl from a once broken down home graduating from High School ... is rare.
           On top of that going to a college, and even a good college... is rare.
           On top of that going to a nationally ranked college and being at the top of her class is   
           even more rare.
           What's even more impressive and rare is that she has a learning deficiency. 

I just wanted to reiterate what Syd said: We can really see the hand of God in all things, He is there and He watches over us. He loves us. :)

I hope that Syd knows I wouldn't be where I am today if it was not for him. I have so much gratitude towards him. I hope that he knows of my appreciation for what he has done for me. For the impact that he has made in my life. For the example that he is to me. For the many blessings that he has brought into my life. For his advise. For his help. For trusting me. For doing what he knew was right... For being selfless so I could reap the blessings from it. 

I love you Syd.