One of my favorite poems begins: “Oh, how I love thee, let me count the ways…”  

Today’s blog is a salute to mother’s birthday - Frances Evelyn Rivers Guy – to a life well—lived. The older I get, the more I understand the inherent blessings of growing up under the tender care of a deeply loving mother. Her sold-out, lifelong commitment to being daddy’s wife and our mother had a profound and lasting impact. Throughout years of serving as a military wife, I would struggle with feelings of uncertainty, disconnection, and insignificance. In uncertain times, I returned to my roots and drew sustenance from the firm foundation she established through her steadfast, unconditional love.      

From her, I learned right from wrong, the importance of kindness, integrity, and responsibility. And that I could trust others.  She instilled strong core values, ethical principles of character, and a deep, unwavering faith in God. She consistently modeled kindness, patience, empathy, and the importance of forming meaningful connections, all of which served me well and shaped my own interactions with people around the world. 

Growing up under her protective care felt safe and secure, like being wrapped in a soft cashmere sweater. She and I developed a lifelong bond that fortified my resolve amid uncertainty and disconnection. In tough times, I was equipped with the ability to draw upon the emotional reserve I needed to navigate life's challenges. Her choice to be fully present throughout my life gives me a solid foundation for living a well-adjusted, fulfilling life today.

Mother

She traveled the journey before you. She had known all the cost of the way, 

She paid out the price of its fullness, that motherhood only can pay.

She loved when the world was against you. She hoped when your hope sank and died,

 She clung to your hand when the clinging, left scars in her heart deep and wide.

She labored-and loved-and was happy, for down deep in her heart she knew 

Your kindness and love would repay her, for all that she did -- just for you.