Things My Mom Taught Me

My mom passed away a year ago today.

Mom has been on my mind all day, and I have been thinking about some of the things I learned from her.

1. Pass on your passion.  She sure did a great job of this! My brother and I both love music, and so do all of our kids. Mom insisted I take piano lessons, and she and I sang together almost every day.

2. Be proud of your work, no matter what your job is. When Mom was a stay-at-home-mom, her house was spotless, and the meals were delicious. Once she went back to work, she was an excellent employee and gave her job her absolute best. I didn't pick up on the cooking and housekeeping, but I have always tried my best at any job I have had. And if circumstances force me to do something other than teach, I will give that job the best I can, too. I think this has passed on to my kids, both of whom are good, hard workers.

3. Family first, always.  Nothing came before her kids and grandchildren, and my kids are the most important people in my life, too.

4. Stand up for what you believe in.  Mom never backed down from a fight if she thought she was right (and Mom always thought she was right ;-) ).  Sometimes, I wish I wasn't quite so much like her in this regard, but I am.

So tonight, I'm sending thoughts of gratitude to Mom. I hope she knows how much I appreciate all she ever did for me.