Mothers' Day

I know today isn't actually Mother's Day, but I wanted to say something anyway.

In Young Womens today, the lesson was on Womanhood.  The teacher invited 4 women in the ward to come in and speak for just a few minutes each. She asked me, as a newly married, to talk about some of the choices I made that got me to where I am today. She also had someone that has little kids, someone with teenagers, and someone who is now a grandma. We all kind of said the same things like deciding early to marry a worth priesthood holder, dressing modestly, paying tithing, attending church functions, going to the temple on a regular basis, ect.

At the end of the lesson we came to the realization that out of the 5 of us (the teacher included), 4 of us had a dad that was either not a member of the church, or inactive. Now all 5 of us have been sealed in the temple, and are active in the church.

Now, I love my dad dearly.  He is a great man, and a good dad.  He supports my mom in going to church, and helps make sure my brothers go on Sunday and to mutual on Wednesday. He doesn't hold the priesthood though. I don't hold that against him, or love him any less because of it. I just knew that when I got married, I wanted it to be to someone that held that authority. I felt the difference when I went to friends houses who's dads were priesthood holders, and I wanted that for my family.

Back to moms.  Something all 5 of us also had in common, is that we all have incredibly strong mothers.  I know I wouldn't be where I am today if my mom wasn't as strong and amazing as she is.  Growing up she had to get 4 kids dressed, and off to church mostly by herself.  My dad would help comb hair, and I'd help with whatever I could, but it was my mom who got us all up, got clothes out, and pushed us out that door. Life wasn't easy for her, having to leave a husband at home while she took us to church.  I know there were times where she felt alone, and weak and just ready to give up.  She never did, and for that I'm so grateful. If not for her, I don't know what I'd be doing with my life, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be here.  She always pushed me to do those things necessary to end up with a temple marriage.

Mom's have a strength that no one really understands.  They love they have for their children is unselfish, and overwhelming.  They have to be strong, for themselves and for their kids.  I know I took my mom for granted sometimes when I was a snotty little teenager, but I will be eternally grateful for her example, and her strength, and push and drive.

I love you, Mommy!