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Can’t tell ya if it was my mother’s patience with me, her strong and continuous love of the Lord, or her ability to love others even when deeply oppressed which was my mom’s greatest gift. The obvious thing is that I was greatly blessed to have my mom for over 50 years. My parents helped me to understand that there are three pillars in everyone’s life- the physical, the mental, and the spiritual. I may have mentioned this before, but my mom would make sure that I attended church with her every Sunday (attached is a picture of me in my normal Sunday garb). Mom was the one who realized just how important my college graduation was and was there at that time to support me. It was my mother who was my greatest fan, it didn’t matter which sport I was participating in she seemed to always be there to support me; my number one fan.
Anyone who is even thinking about becoming a parent needs to realize that once you are a parent it is vital that you no longer place yourself anywhere near the top of your priority list. So many times today, I see young men and women leaving their spouse and unfortunately their children for greener pastures. Friends the grass always looks greener on the other side; even if you think it smells better, don’t be fooled. Satin is the great deceiver. First, remember the vow you took on your wedding day; before God and man. Second, if you have your priorities right, your children should come way before your own desires; think about, what is going to be in their best interests. Third, if you are being plagued with doubts, talk to your pastor or another Christian friend, before approaching your spouse again. Here is where Christian counseling is often useful in opening the chain of communication within a relationship.
Talking to me between classes one of my students asked me (last week), how long I had been married. My response seemed to shock many of the students standing around; “I have been married to the same women for 35 years, and we dated for 5 years before that”. The student’s responses were remarkable. One student commented “see it is possible”. Another chimed in with, “you must have been high school sweethearts”. The first comment made me feel good as a role model, and the second has me feelin good for my age. This also reminds me of just how blessed I have been to have had Debbie to help me raise three wonderful daughters (attached is a picture of my family).
Now at the end of spring, we celebrate Mother’s Day. Let me encourage each of you to show the mother’s in you life just how special they are to you. For without the mom’s in my life neither I nor any of my family would have the strength of mind , body, or spirit that we have been gifted with today. Happy Mother’s Day 2010.
Anyone who is even thinking about becoming a parent needs to realize that once you are a parent it is vital that you no longer place yourself anywhere near the top of your priority list. So many times today, I see young men and women leaving their spouse and unfortunately their children for greener pastures. Friends the grass always looks greener on the other side; even if you think it smells better, don’t be fooled. Satin is the great deceiver. First, remember the vow you took on your wedding day; before God and man. Second, if you have your priorities right, your children should come way before your own desires; think about, what is going to be in their best interests. Third, if you are being plagued with doubts, talk to your pastor or another Christian friend, before approaching your spouse again. Here is where Christian counseling is often useful in opening the chain of communication within a relationship.
Talking to me between classes one of my students asked me (last week), how long I had been married. My response seemed to shock many of the students standing around; “I have been married to the same women for 35 years, and we dated for 5 years before that”. The student’s responses were remarkable. One student commented “see it is possible”. Another chimed in with, “you must have been high school sweethearts”. The first comment made me feel good as a role model, and the second has me feelin good for my age. This also reminds me of just how blessed I have been to have had Debbie to help me raise three wonderful daughters (attached is a picture of my family).
Now at the end of spring, we celebrate Mother’s Day. Let me encourage each of you to show the mother’s in you life just how special they are to you. For without the mom’s in my life neither I nor any of my family would have the strength of mind , body, or spirit that we have been gifted with today. Happy Mother’s Day 2010.
1 comment:
Our Mom was a great role model..Thanks for your thoughtful words Al!
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