My Mom: The Supermodel
As we honor moms this Mother's Day with our "Why My Mom is a Supermodel" exhibit, here's my own submission:
I've never met anyone with quite as much joie d vivre as my mother. She wore red lipstick and read trashy novels and gave me paper dolls when I was sick. She sang when she cooked and ate hot fudge sundaes for breakfast.
I was 23 years old when she died. She was 50. I missed her so much that I couldn't imagine how to go on living without her. Just out of college--with real life staring me in the face--I needed my best friend and companion at my side.
I had questions that only she could answer. Problems that only she could solve. But mostly, I missed telling her about my little daily triumphs. Because no one else will care so deeply, will cheer you on so loudly, or hug you so tightly as your mother will.
That was many years ago. And I have gone on living. In part, because of what she taught me.
My mother taught me to be my own person. She taught me to do what was right for me, no matter what the rest of the world was telling me to do. She taught me not to be afraid to say no. And not to be afraid to say yes.
My mother taught me how to have fun. That most things are really not that important. And that life's challenges are best met with a healthy dose of laughter.
My mother taught me that life is short. And that every day is a gift, especially when you are surrounded by the ones that you love.
Happy Mother's Day, mom. And to all Supermodel Moms.
Next >>>
|
