During these times of economic recession many people have found it difficult to just pay their bills never mind provide the amenities that special occasions call for. So much time spent on school, work and the everyday duties of everyday life often prevent us from taking the time to express ourselves. Holidays like Valentine’s Day often remind us not to forget our special loved ones. We express ourselves through the purchase of flowers, candy and gifts. Today I would like to express my gratitude for a special someone in a different way. I have had the honor of knowing her throughout my whole life. Throughout the extent of our lives when we have been in the “thick of things”, she has demonstrated the grace and stamina to not only endure but to display the art of forgiveness. Some of the hardest things to forgive i.e. adultery etc. she has done. Whereas, I cannot even begin to grasp how she extends her graciousness to others; I would do good to take notice of how she has "turned the other cheek" time and time again. I try to show the adherence to such a trait and to hold it inside of my heart. Forgiveness is not an easy gift to give (or to receive). It is much easier to hide from those that have hurt us than to confront them head on. However with grace, my mother radiates with love and her spirit always shines through .Where there should not be forgiveness in my eyes - she remembers the answer that Jesus gave when asked, "How many times should I forgive my brother - seven times?" Jesus in turn answered, "seven times seven times" - meaning infinitely.
In this world of distrust, violence and selfishness; how refreshing it is to find someone or some ones who can model forgiveness. What a great gift my mother has given to me and to others; as was modeled by her remarkable mother – my grandmother throughout the years. Hopefully, it will spill over to all those that she comes into contact with. I pray that I will find room for such a spirit in my own heart.
I would encourage others to take notice of the heart and to realize that "toys and trinkets", whereas useful and even enduring, do not make up for the wrong choices we all make in not so easily being able to express what is truly inside of our own hearts. Mom we love you today and every day and you live always inside of our hearts.
PS Love to the “mothers” that we have lost that still live inside of each of our hearts.
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