Mother’s Day means so much more to me than it used to.  One could say now that I’m a mom I understand the work and sacrifice of mothers.  But, I think it’s more because of the situation I’m in with my own mom at this time.

My mom has Alzheimer’s.

I could really just stop there because anyone who’s been around a person with Alzheimer’s understands the difficulty that this disease presents.

Interestingly, my mom is still awesome – (she’s always been pretty awesome and that awesomeness has not changed one bit).

The best part is that she’s happy most of the time and quick to laugh.  She might not remember where she is, what she’s doing or who she’s talking to; but she has definitely remembered her sense of humor.

We honestly couldn’t ask for a better disposition in the midst of a tragic disease.

I think the worst part of this disease is that I sometimes feel like I’ve already lost my real mom, but her body is still with us.  Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s has the ability to take a vibrant, independent and on-the-go person and turn them into a shell of their former self.  It’s frustrating, lonely, scary and sad.

BUT THAT ISN’T THE END OF THE STORY!!!

The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him. Psalm 28:7

Aging affects all of us.  In fact, hopefully we will all get old enough to take care of our parents because this means we’ve lived to be a ripe old age.

Our attitude, sense of responsibility and faith are what will make us different, joyful and hopeful when we face our own parents aging circumstances.

Mom may not remember my name every time I talk to her, but her situation gives me the opportunity to do God’s work and give back just an inkling of what she gave to me.

But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 1Timothy 5:8

Alzheimer’s may take away her memories, but it doesn’t take away mine!!! 

So, in honor of Mother’s Day, here are a few things that my mom taught me about life.

1. Always be ready for company.
2. Be quick to smile and laugh in any situation.
3. Always have a project to work on.
4. Don’t be afraid to get dirty.
5. When you go out…dress so you feel pretty.
6. Be independent and strong, regardless of who says you shouldn’t.
7. Take everything with a grain of salt.
8. AND…a glass of wine makes everything better!

No matter whom you call mom (adopted, grandma, friend or teacher) or where she is today (here on earth or in heaven)…CELEBRATE the gifts of her teaching, care and love.  No one on earth ever loves you like your mom does.

As a mom, myself, I can only hope that I raise children who are ready and willing to take care of their aging parents.  Lord knows I’m gonna be a mess!!!!  Good luck to Jake and Chase!

Some Wisdom for Today:  Proverbs 31:10-31 – An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.