Sunday, May 3, 2009

Early Mother's Day

Because of chaotic family commitments over the next few weeks, my family is gathering today for an early Mother's Day celebration -- a quiet dinner at my sister's house. So to help get me in the party mood, I'd like to share a few thoughts on Mama and her day, which, by the way, should come around more than once per year, don't you think? Perhaps once per month should be adopted.

I came across the following quote this morning, and it made me think of my mother:
I will make love my greatest weapon and none on who I call can defend against its force....My love will melt all hearts liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest day.- Og Mandino

My mother is a tough woman who lived through harsh times. Although she doesn’t admit it, life dealt her meager hand -- deaf, little education, married to an alcoholic -- she raised four kids by the force of her love. Yes, she is tough.

In my more than half century of living I have never once questioned her love and steadfast commitment to making me a better person by the shear force of her love. That mother/child bond is such a powerful force that sweeps so deeply that my eyes are tearing as I type.

Yet, I must admit that I’d forgotten the family plans today. I had a full day of work planned, and when my husband came into my office to remind me we were leaving at noon, I momentarily became miffed that family commitments were once again interrupting my writing schedule. It is times like this when I realize that I've become a workaholic and should seek help... Left brain asks: Is it really a bad thing to indulge in what you love doing, as long as it's not destructive? Right brain responds: Yes, when others are hurt from your neglect.

The angry feelings only lasted a minute and now I'm looking forward to a long drive and yummy dinner with the family, many of whom I haven't seen in several months. The writing will easily wait another day.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mama.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nice muse and post, Alan. Really liked this:

"Left brain asks: Is it really a bad thing to indulge in what you love doing, as long as it's not destructive? Right brain responds: Yes, when others are hurt from your neglect."

Right brain is right. That's why it's on the right side. :)

Karen Brees said...

I cried. Your mother raised a fine son.

C. Margery Kempe said...

What a wonderful acclaim for your mother. I will buck the trend and say that doing what you love is the most important thing. There's no joy like creating, though, yes -- other people mean a lot to us and need to be honored as well. And you can do a lot of drafting in your head on the way!

Enid Wilson said...

Alan, it's a lovely piece. I think we should have more mother's day, father's day, wife's day, husband's day in a year!

We do not express our loves for others more frequently.

Jina Bacarr said...

What a lovely tribute to an outstanding woman. I'm so impressed with not only the obstacles your mom faced and overcame, but also by your commitment to your mom.

Dr.Mani said...

Yes, moms are special. Give yours an extra hug from all of us at BBT :-)

All success
Dr.Mani
Author: "Think, Write & RETIRE!"
http://ThinkWriteRetire.com