Right now there are a lot of people shopping for good deals, but mostly to buy gifts for friends and family. We all know that come December 25th gifts are exchanged and there will be plenty of joy and laughter. To me it is a really special day, because of course it is Christmas day, when we celebrate the birth of our savior. But on Christmas day my mom was born and it is her birthday.
She passed away a few years ago, but on December 25th I still remember that it is her birthday. She was an incredible lady who taught me how to see the good in people, how to help and expect nothing in return, how to be patient, but most of all how to love others. She thrived in helping others in many ways.
It is the smallest of things that would make her happy. Bring her something sweet to eat and you won her over! She made due with what she had. At times we did not have much money but still she found a way to get gifts. The memory that most stands out about her was as follows.
My mom and dad divorced when I was just getting into my teens. And my dad had moved out, but he would always come by and make sure we were taken care of. But on Christmas when we would go buy gifts, she would always buy two extra gifts. I was curious about who they were for. I later learned that they were for my brothers or half brothers that my dad had with his new wife.
Many would say she was stupid to do that, or even go out of her way to not acknowledge them. But she would always let me know they were just kids and not their fault. She never met them, and she never had a bad word to say about my dad and his new wife.My mom was an example to me and to many in her church.
She was also praying for her kids to come to know the greatest of all gifts Jesus Christ. Well I did and so did my sister. It was the most important thing in her life. That her kids would come to know Christ. I do remember her praying faithfully every day, no matter the circumstance we were under she never skipped her prayer time.
I miss you and not a day goes by that I see something that reminds me of you, your smile, and gentle ways…. Merry Christmas mom….. and Happy Birthday!
N4KMA