I'll never know what it's like to be mother. I know it's a little bit similar to being a dad, but based more on emotions it would seem. There's a solid, unbreakable bond between a woman and her child that is just completely different than that of a man and his children. I can often remove myself emotinally from whatever conflict arises in my child's life. I can say, "well, do this and that and perhaps you'll make it through". I can even step away and let them fall if they're heading over a hill, but mom has a tougher time doing that.

She wants to step in and fix things. She feels their pain and can soothe their wounds. She offers wise counsel when needed and can just as quickly step in with a rebuke. She knows how to sew and what knows which color of clothes can be washed together. She wipes away tears and knows what to do with a sore throat. She'll stay up late to sit with her sick child and will rise early to fix their morning meal. She is tireless; persisten; faithful; gentle or harsh, depending on the circumstances; watchful; caring; soothing; industrious; and can wear any other hat whenever she's called on.

I put my mom through her own private hell when I was younger. She prayed faithfully for me and was patient with me while enduring hardship. I was selfish and lost and did not appreciate her love for a number of years. I have found forgiveness and have tried to be a good son since those days. I will be eternally grateful for such a loving mother. I know I can never pay her back, except to love her. And that I'll try and do while we're together on this earth.

I love you Mom