Mother's Day

Mother's Day is upon us. This is a very special day to most of us as most of us have a mother (some end up with more than one - I have been so blessed). Most of us wouldn't have got to where we are in life without the help and support of our mother.

My own mother is a small, frail old lady - big in spirit, but physically limited due to age and the deteriorations resulting from an accident a few years back with a dump truck. She has a fair portion of hard days and she copes with them and my father's health problems with an amazing patience and aplomb I could only aspire to. Both of my parents have coped with the challenges life has thrown at them over the past few years in a most amazing fashion. I often feel sadly incapable whenever I look at the footsteps I'm walking in.

I've been very fortunate to have both of my parents. My father taught me to be practical and realistic and as importantly, he taught me about ethics and honour. My mother taught me about compassion, kindness, charity and integrity. I'm still learning from them every day and I'm thankful that I have been given that chance.

Toni and Alan have been like a second family to me and have extended to me the warmth and friendship that make me feel like I truly do have two homes. As a single person sometimes prone to periods of relative solitude (and not overfond of those), that's a godsend in its own way.

I have many friends who are now mothers in their own right: Rhonda, Shelly, Susan, Stephanie, Annette, Wendy, Linda, Natalie, Julie, Lisa, Laurie, Lisa the second, Erica, and probably a few others I can't recall. Each in their own way has grown more complete and more amazing as time has gone by and as they raise their children.

My heart is filled with best wishes for my Mother, for my other Mother, and for all of the Mothers I know and who've made me feel at home and welcome in their worlds. My life wouldn't have been the same without them and is far the better for having them in it.

I'd like to also extend a special thought for Mother's Day: A few of my friends have lost theirs to the fates and the passage of time. I want them to know I'm thinking of them and their mother's as well this mother's day. I hope they can feel welcome in the homes and families of others and find a small part of what they once had. My family has always made my friends welcome, another fine mark in their favour as my friends are uniformly quality people, and I hope that all of my friends know that attitude of welcome from my family (and me) continues to this day.

To all of the Mothers: My warmest regards, my blessings, and a wish that the coming years bring you nothing but the happiness and contentment you deserve. Well done.