Happy Mother's Day 2009

I have been a mother for over 21 years. It seems like I have been a mother my whole life. One of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had was being a mother. I have watched all three of my boys grow along with my new granddaughter.

My best memories are ones that include my children. The first time they ate ketchup on their fries, their first steps, their first words, the day my oldest graduated was the best one of all until my granddaughter was born.

In 2005, my oldest son was standing at the podium telling all the families and well wishers how his mother was the most important reason why he was graduating early. He sited the times I had to physically drag him to school, went out and found him only to return him to school when he skipped, how I stood by him through good grades and bad, through his triumphs and his failures, how I basically bent over backwards to do what I could for him to succeed. It brought tears to my eyes.

However, it was not until the birth of my granddaughter did the true meaning of motherhood came through. I went to the hospital to see my daughter-in-law and the new family member. My son met me at the door. He hugged me and took me aside as my mother went into the room. With tears in his eyes he thanked me. He thanked me to being his mom. He thanked me for all I tried to do throughout his life, how I tried to help him stay on the right road, the advice I gave him and the acceptance of his wife whom he knew I felt he could do better, but I accepted her and grew to love her just because he did. He stood tired, but alive with the birth of his daughter. He then became speechless, and if anyone knew my son that was a notable event. I hugged him and told him that was what mothers do. This was our job.

I just wanted to tell all you mothers out there, that if you think all the sacrifices you do for your children will go unrewarded, this is not true. Maybe, you are not as lucky as I am to have a son that tells you this... but I bet in just watching your children grow up to be the best adult they can be - this is your reward.

Happy Mother's Day to all you Mothers. From one mother to another.