Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a very complicated day. There are people who have lost mothers, there are people who are yearning to be mothers, there are people who struggle with being mothers, there are people who have complicated relationships with their mothers, and the list goes on. My thoughts on this is that it’s important to be sensitive on this day and at the same time it’s ok, and even important, for people to be able to express their gratitude and appreciation for what they have.
This year I would like to focus my Mother’s Day blogpost on the gratitude I have for my mother and what she’s taught me. She never sat down and said “this is what I want you to know”… she led by example and I feel blessed and grateful that I can share with you some of the top life lessons I’ve learned from her over the years:
- Faith – I have never met someone more connected and faith-driven than my mother. It’s at the core of everything. I know that as Jews we all have it but it’s not always visible, but with my mother you see it in everything she does. I’d be lucky to be able to emulate that just a fraction.
- Passion – My mother would probably be considered an introvert; she’s socially warm and friendly but does not like to be the center of attention. Yet, when there is something that she believes in strongly, there is no stopping her. I so admire the passion and strength she has to stand up for what she believes is right. I’ve been told that I’m pretty passionate and I’m proud to say I come by it honestly ☺
- Modesty – My mother has mastered the amazing combination of being modest and fashionable. She will never compromise on her standards and will always be the image of class. It’s something I constantly work on and have a beautiful role model to mimic.
- Attentive (attention to detail) – One of the coolest things I have learned is so subtle yet so powerful. I grew up in an open home with a ton of guests. My mother was always very attentive and the ultimate host. What blew me away (and still does) is how she really paid attention to what people liked, what food was their favorite, all the small details. When that person would return, she would always make sure to prepare the foods they most enjoyed. That made a huge impression on me. I hope that being around that kind of sensitivity, has rubbed off on me.
- Do everything in the best possible way – There is no doing things halfway with my mother, there’s no cutting corners. If you are going to do something, do it right! Whether it a Shabbos meal, a preschool program or a birthday party, It will always be done with class and every detail perfected.
My mission in life is to take these wonderful lessons and be able to apply them to my life in my own unique way.
Happy Mother’s Day to all! I hope everyone finds their form of peace, acceptance and comfort.