Happy Birthday Mom

Today is my mother's birthday and while we are 3000 miles apart, I am thinking of her and what she has meant in my life. The words that describe her include diligent, eternally optimistic, energetic, disciplined and loving. She is a teacher by training and gifting. She continues to travel long distances and teaches in schools in Mexico and at seminars, conferences and retreats at an age when most people are fully retired. When she moved to Mexico with my dad and younger brothers, she was in her mid forties. But she tackled the Spanish language and now speaks and reads it fluently.

Proverbs 31 is quoted frequently in reference to remarkable women. and there really is no better description of mom. I have pulled a few verses from the chapter that are especially fitting.

17She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.

20She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.

22She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

25She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

26She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

27She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

29“Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”

30Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

31Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Happy Birthday Mom! I Love You!