Growing up, my mom always encouraged my sisters and me to form our own opinions, and to think about what we believe and why. I have clear memories of asking my Mom questions, sometimes deep stuff, and her quiet, thoughtful response would often be, "What do you think, Heidi?" From Santa Claus' existence to things like, can women be pastors, she didn't tell me what to think. She would let us know what she believed, but she wanted us to first think about it for ourselves.
My mom was always so attentive and tuned in to my emotions. She could read me like a book. And I have never been one to wear emotions on my sleeve. I was a very shy, quiet, home body girl growing up (still am actually), but she could tell when something was up, sometimes before I even knew what was really bothering me.
She loved (just using past tense here because I'm reflecting on childhood, or things in the past) my sisters and me deeply. I know that sounds like a given for a mom, right? But never under value the gift of truly knowing that you are loved. How many broken lives are there because of broken relationships between a parent and their child. I have a lot of memories of talking with my mom one on one in the car. I think I felt more comfortable opening up when I was in the safety of being with just her. Between all the sports games, practices, music lessons and concerts, she drove me around a lot. My freshmen year of high school was kind of rough socially. I felt left out by the others girls in my class, and was feeling particularly lonely one night. We were almost home when I started crying. She changed our route to go for a longer drive so I could tell her what was going on. I remember she seemed so sad. She was heartbroken for me. Hear broken to see her daughter hurting. It was so good to know that she cared. Her responses were never "Oh you'll be fine. Don't worry about it." When someone is upset, you don't have to solve their problems. Sometimes you just need to be present and let them know you care. A great lesson I learned from Mom.
My mom always supported us fully in our interests and passions. I felt like I could do and be anything I wanted to because she didn't discourage our dreams. Of course my dreams were never crazy unrealistic stuff, but again... don't under value the gift of feeling loved and supported in your dreams and aspirations.
My parents let me leave the country on a few occasions. Once in high school with just one other girl my age to go on a mission trip to Mexico. We met up with people there of course. Another time in college, God led me to go on a medical trip to Costa Rica. This was independent of school or church or anyone I knew at all. I knew she was a little scared and worried, but she (and my dad- can't leave him out) didn't deny me those amazing opportunities. I was so blessed by those trips, and I'm so grateful I went.
Most importantly, she taught me through example to love Jesus. Ever since I can remember, my mom has had morning devotions. I could tell how she treasured that time. Her actions reflect God's commands for us: to love Him and to love others. My mom is one of the most selfless people I know.
Happy Mother's Day (a little late), Mom! Love you
