Saturday, March 9, 2024
A TRIBUTE FOR MY MOM
About Me
As the only son and youngest of four, with three amazing sisters, I've always held a unique position in our family—a place lovingly embraced by my mom, who always seemed to maneuver the waves of our busy, and sometimes chaotic household with endless love and perseverance. My sisters might say I was the spoiled one, but that's a label I wear with a little bit of pride and a lot of affection, knowing that Mom never gave up on the hopes of conceiving me, her only son.
Despite the physical miles that separate us today to celebrate her memory, I am connected in spirit as I reflect on an incredible woman who molded our lives with her courage, warmth, and unfailing love.
Mom’s Influence
Our mother was a beacon of positivity, her warmth and beautiful smile a constant presence in not only our lives, but the lives of everyone she met. Her love for Jesus was the foundation of her existence, a deep and abiding faith that she lived out every day, and it inspired others, including each of us siblings, to want to know Christ more completely. This legacy of faith, in accepting Him as our Lord and Savior, is possibly her most significant influence on us.
Her beautiful soprano voice filled our home and church with wonderful tunes. Singing in cantatas and leading us in song as a family, she shared not just her gift but also her delight, expressing her love for music and God.
Mom was more than simply a mother to Becki and me; she was also a teacher for a considerable portion of our lives. As we traveled around, she homeschooled us with passion, passing on her expertise with kindness and creativity. She taught me the complexities of English and the logic of arithmetic, skills that I carry with pride as her direct influence.
Life with Mom was never dull; she had an unparalleled knack for transforming mundane moments into adventures. Long drives across the country became memorable journeys filled with games, songs, and laughter, each mile a testament to her ability to make life exciting.
Her love for exploring God’s creation was infectious. From the awe-inspiring expanse of the Grand Canyon to the tranquil beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, and from the artistic wonders at the Corning Glass Museum to the natural marvels of Howe Caverns, she reveled in it all. Through her eyes, we learned to see the handiwork of our Creator in every corner of the world, a sense of wonder and appreciation that remains with us.
A Cherished Memory
Among the many joyful moments shared with Mom, one memory stands out with particular brightness: my first professional basketball game on my 15th birthday. Mom, knowing my passion for basketball, planned an unforgettable day for just the two of us. We embarked on a 2-hour journey, filled with anticipation and excitement, to see Larry Bird and the Celtics play. That trip—just me and her—was more than just a journey to a basketball game; it was an adventure, a shared experience that brought us even closer.
Sitting in the stands, watching the game unfold, I could sense her joy in my excitement. The Celtics won that day, but the victory was just a small part of the experience. The true win was the memory we created together, our first NBA game, a moment of pure happiness and connection. It’s a memory that embodies so much of what made Mom extraordinary: her knack for making life exciting, her thoughtful consideration of our passions, and her ability to turn a simple day into an unforgettable adventure.
This memory, like so many others, serves as a testament to her love and the vibrant spirit she brought into our lives.
Her Legacy
When I think about what Mom left behind, her biggest legacy has to be how she was always there for Dad, especially with all the challenges that came with his job as a missionary pastor. They were together for almost 60 years, and she was his rock. Dad’s work meant they had to travel a lot, sometimes to really distant places, but Mom never made it seem like a burden. She was always by his side, making sure they could face anything together.
Their partnership showed me what it really means to support someone you love. It wasn’t just about being there when things were easy; it was sticking together when they got tough. That’s something you don’t see every day. In the pictures you see around today, it’s hard to find one where she isn’t right next to Dad. Those photos say a lot—they weren’t just husband and wife; they were a team.
Mom’s kind of support and dedication is the kind of thing that keeps a family strong and helps a community grow. She showed us all what it means to be loyal, to love deeply, and to always have each other's backs. That’s the real legacy she leaves us with, and it’s something we’ll carry forward, always remembering how much she did for Dad and for all of us.
A Message of Thanks
Mom, as I sit down to write this, I find myself struggling to capture the depth of gratitude I feel for everything you've done for us. From the everyday moments of joy to the challenges we faced as a family, your love and strength have been our guiding light. Thank you for the sacrifices you made, the lessons you taught, and the unconditional love you showered upon us. Your spirit, your faith, and your love for life have left an indelible mark on our hearts, and for that, we are forever grateful.
A Farewell Message
I take solace in the memories we've created together and the affection that will bind us forever as we say goodbye for now. You've taught us the value of kindness, the strength of faith, and the importance of family. While we will miss you deeply, we know that your legacy will live on through the lives you've touched and the love you've given.
In your memory, we'll find strength in our shared love and the beautiful moments we've spent together. Though you've left us in body, your spirit remains a guiding force in our lives. Rest in peace Mom. Your love will continue to hold us together as a family.
