As I witness the distinct traits of my mother manifesting within me, I feel a sense of joy. It’s heartening to see the essence of such a unique and vibrant woman taking root in my own life, almost like a curious reverse gestation. While my mother didn’t always adhere to my expectations—perhaps that’s the very essence of motherhood—her words and actions have left a lasting impression on me, and I cherish that.
Here are some invaluable lessons passed down from my mother to me, and now to my daughter, which may resonate with you as well.
- “Your hairstyle should enhance your face. It’s not just about length; it’s about shape. Anyone can have long, unkempt hair—what’s appealing about that?”
- “It’s different from, not different than!”
- “When you land, bend your knees! Your joints will thank you.”
- “To put on your shirt, pull it straight down. If you shove your entire face through, you’ll stretch out the elastic!”
- “To ease an itch around a wound, scratch nearby—not directly over it, or you’ll leave a scar.”
- “Don’t ruin your appetite!”
- “Disney films are a distorted version of childhood. Instead, let’s watch Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street together. We can make popcorn!”
- “The secrets to life? Basting every ten minutes, a bit of Formula 409, and rouge.”
- “I’m totally fine that you prefer store-bought dressing over my homemade oil, vinegar, paprika, and ‘tear-infused’ recipe.”
- “Stay focused—never glance left or right. Keep your eyes on the ball.”
- “Not all rules are essential; only some truly matter.”
As I approach my fortieth birthday, I finally grasp the wisdom in disregarding certain rules about addition.
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In summary, these lessons from my mother continue to shape my parenting approach, reminding me to embrace both wisdom and creativity as I guide my daughter.