My mother passed away on my birthday in 2004, the year before the birth of my youngest child. More than anything, I miss my mom being a part of my daily life. You’re never too old to need your mother. So, in honor of the upcoming Mother’s Day — and in memory of my own mom — I want to share the story of a day, over a decade ago, that was memorable but also typical in the life of a mom.
I have what some might call a fancy education. I took six years to get a four-year degree and also married and had my first child during that time. In the months leading up to graduation, friends, family, and professors asked what I planned to do next. I realized more than any job, I wanted another baby. Ten months after graduation I gave birth to my second son and never looked back.
While my education helped prepare me to eventually homeschool my own children, I never imagined the gamut of emotions — from sheer terror to pure bliss inherent — in what, to me, is the greatest job in the world.
On just an average day, I experienced several of those moments that so often define motherhood.
Every mother who has had both a toddler and a set of stairs knows that awful sound: the thud, followed by wailing. I heard it and ran across the house, scared of what I would find. My twenty-month-old daughter lay at the bottom of the stairs, scared and hurt. I sat and held her until she stopped crying, while she marked my black shirt with iridescent trails of mucus, a visible badge of motherhood. Then she snuggled in close and popped her little thumb in her mouth, content. It wouldn’t always be so, but I was blessed with a moment when I was all she needed to make everything better.
In the afternoon, my ten-year-old daughter had her homeschooling program that teaches practical skills and needed to finish her project of sewing a tiered skirt. While I helped at my painfully slow pace, the other mothers and daughters seemed to fly through the steps. Then it hit me: my daughter didn’t seem to notice or care that I wasn’t as skilled as many of the other moms. She looked at me with adoring eyes, confident that I could guide her. The blind devotion of a child is a sacred trust, and I was humbled and honored by it.
After a long day, we headed to Moe’s for dinner. While we ate, I noticed two ladies seated close to us who seemed to observe our clan. This was not uncommon; a family of ten attracts attention. People don’t always understand why we would have so many children, and their attitude is not always kind. As they were leaving, one of the ladies leaned down and spoke in my ear, “Your family is adorable. Simply precious!” I never saw her again, but her words were not soon forgotten.
When I read Proverbs 31, verse 28 always jumps out at me: “Her children arise and call her blessed.” That’s what I want, what I can’t attain on my own, what has to be given to me, undeserving though I am.
On that ordinary day, my children beheld me as comforter, teacher, and the object of their affection. Though I seek to bless their precious lives, the truth is they bless me beyond measure.
This coming Sunday, I encourage you to honor your mother or your mother’s memory. If you have children, please join me in thanking God for them.
Lindsey says
Praying this Mother’s Day you are comforted by favorite memories, simple memories, and savored moments. My mom died on my birthday as well. I was sure there were other people out there but I’d yet to meet one. That day has become convoluted with so many different emotions and overwhelm. I’m not sure when that day is for you, but I hope and pray you give yourself time and space to feel all the feels, letting them wash over you confident they will not drown you, aware of the Lord’s presence as you experience every single one. Happy Mother’s Day.
Dawn Camp says
Lindsey, blessings to you on your birthdays too. Mine was in March. It is definitely an emotional day, but time has helped.
Susen says
Oh Dawn, a beautiful article. I live to be a Mom. My Mom taught me that. She did it naturally, she genuinely loved, cared for and gave all she had to her children. Your article is a beautiful reminder of how truly blessed we are to have others call us, Mom.
Happy Mothers Day!
Dawn Camp says
Susen, what a wonderful example your mom set for you. Happy Mothers Day!
Brenda M. Russell says
Hello Everyone, I am one mother who loves the position of Motherhood; Caregiver, Teacher, Comforter, Nurse, Chef, Girl Scout Mom, Band Mom, and Chauffeur.
My years of being my mother’s “only” child helped prepare me some for the lifelong journey. My joy has been watching my three daughters grow into intelligent young women who know the love of God. Understanding Daughters can be very complicated sometimes. Each child is different and independent of the other siblings. Your love has to meet and embrace different perspectives and personalities. Be prepared to ask the Holy Spirit for daily guidance and comfort in your heart. Don’t forget that hormones come to visit in about the 6th Grade and they never leave (Smile).
I can only speak for myself and I have enjoyed many cards (handmade), cookies, small gifts and vacations from my daughters over the years. What I liked best was seeing them be happy, no worries about their jobs and enough in their checking accounts. You understand, I know you do.
God bless the children who are gifted to Mothers all around the world.
Brenda
Your Sister in Christ
Dawn Camp says
Brenda, you are blessed to have three daughters and the wisdom to understand their differences. Happy Mothers Day!
Danielle says
So beautiful and a gentle reminder. Thank you for sharing!
Dawn Camp says
You’re welcome, Danielle!
Becky Keife says
Such a beautiful memory and tribute to motherhood, Dawn. Wishing your own mom could be here to celebrate with you. She would be so proud of you.
Dawn Camp says
Thanks so much, friend!
Beth Williams says
Dawn,
Thanks for the precious memories of motherhood. My mom died in 2009 after a 2 year battle with dementia. I miss the old mom way before that. When I got married I gained a step MIL. His mom died in late 1980s from brain cancer. We don’t celebrate mother of father’s day anymore. Both our parents are gone & we never had children. Praying all moms out there get blessed this Sunday. You women do a tremendous job raising Godly children.
Blessings 🙂
Dawn Camp says
Blessings to you, Beth. My MIL passed away in January so it’s our first Mother’s Day without her.
Asana Grigsby says
This is wonderful. I could relate to every word. I appreciate this very much and pray that you have a wonderful Mother’s Day!
Dawn Camp says
Thank you, Asana. Happy Mother’s Day to you too!
Nancy Kavanagh says
My Mom passed away April 7th. I have barely begun to grieve her and this Mothers Day will be difficult. My three children are doing all they can to make it special for me and I am blessed to have them. Yes this year will be difficult but I am also blessed that I had my beautiful mother for 56 years and I cherish and treasure every moment I had with her.
Dawn Camp says
Nancy, I understand what a hard holiday this will be. I’m thankful for your kind and understanding children. Blessings to you!