“Behind all your stories is always your mother’s story.”

“Because hers is where yours begin.”  Mitch Albom  

Mother’s Day has been difficult for me since Hannah’s passing.  I was her mother, but I was not able to protect her.  Love wasn’t enough.  A mother is supposed to protect their children.  Isn’t that the maternal bottom line?

Nor will my daughter become the wonderful mom I had dreamed of.  We will not share the knowing looks across the room – the smiles, laughter and frustrations that are shared among mothers; the inside perspective I share with my wonderful moms.

This does not have to happen to you, for you to question your role of mother.  Sons and daughters take heed.  Mother’s are human and have insecurities too.  They thirst for the three “A’s” –  acknowledgement, appreciation and affirmation, but perhaps the upcoming Mother’s Day could be the impetus to share your feelings.

For some, it is difficult to express these feelings to your mom in person.  Maybe a more comfortable way to convey these emotions is to write her a Tribute Legacy Letter for Mother’s Day.

I will make it easy for you.  Just write down, on attractive stationery, (NOT e-mail) the answers to a few of the following questions and mail your letter to her on or before May 10.

1. What are two or three favorite and/or funny memories of your mom?
2. What are the things you most admire or appreciate about her?
3. What do you consider are her most significant achievements and accomplishments?  Why?
4. What trait(s), talent(s) and or skill(s) of your mom do you most wish to emulate? Why? Can you share a story or two that helps illustrate these traits?
5. What are some profound ways your mom helped you, or someone you love that he/she may not be aware of?
6. Was there ever a time you needed a friend or advocate and your mom came through for you? How? Share this story.
7. In what positive ways does she touch your life, and perhaps of those you love?
8. In what positive ways does she touch other peoples’ lives or the community?
9. What hopes, blessings or forgiveness do you have for her?
10. Is there anything you want to thank her for?
11. In hindsight of passing years, what has maturity revealed to you about your mom’s real value?
12. If this was the last time you would have a chance to say something to your mom, what would you say to her?

I came across an article about a mother’s dying words to her son.  I recommend you read this article by clicking here.  It might inspire you to put pen to paper today instead of tomorrow.  Leah