This year marks my first Mother’s Day without my mom. She passed away unexpectedly earlier this year, leaving a void that feels impossible to fill. Each day since her passing has been a struggle as I grapple with the reality of living in a world without her. There’s an ache in my heart for just one more conversation, one more piece of advice—just one more chance to share a laugh.
What I’ve come to realize is that my mom spent her life preparing me for this very moment. Motherhood is not solely about nurturing your children while you are present; it’s about equipping them to thrive in your absence. Through countless late-night discussions, family debates, and shared meals, I absorbed invaluable lessons from her life that help me cope now.
Take Pride in Your Work
My mother was always dedicated to her craft as a seamstress, creating everything from the First Daughter’s holiday dress to garments for communities in need. Regardless of the project, she poured her heart into her work, always striving for excellence. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the pay; it’s about the impact and integrity of what you produce.
Learn Practical Skills
From a young age, my mom taught me essential skills like sewing a button and hemming pants. I once confidently claimed that I could always hire someone to do those tasks. Her response? “If you don’t know how something should look, how will you know if someone else is doing it right?” That wisdom resonates with me today.
Community Matters
My mom was an extraordinary woman, effortlessly preparing homemade pasta for large gatherings and baking for baby showers. However, she never did it alone; she had the support of her friends. No one can do it all by themselves, but when women come together, they can achieve incredible things.
Face Challenges Head-On
Although my mom loved the water, she never learned to swim. Instead, she ensured we took swimming lessons. Life can unexpectedly throw you into the deep end, and it’s vital to know how to stay afloat.
Love with Abandon
My mom had dreams that went unfulfilled, like her desire to visit Las Vegas. Yet, she lived each day fully, pouring her love into every hug. My daughter often remarks that her Nonna’s hugs felt like they could squeeze the breath from her, but I remind her that it was all about the love being shared.
Cherish Every Goodbye
In my family, greeting and parting with a kiss were customary. I am thankful for this tradition, as it means that the last time I saw her, I hugged her tightly and exchanged “I love you” and “goodbye” just as we always did. Had I known it would be the final farewell, I might have struggled to let go, but life seldom provides warnings.
My mother lived with passion and without regret. I miss her deeply every day, and the thought of continuing my life without her presence is daunting. However, my most critical role as a mother is to ensure that when my daughter encounters challenges, she’ll have the strength to rise again—even in my absence.
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In summary, while this Mother’s Day is bittersweet, the lessons my mom imparted will continue to guide me as I raise my daughter. Her love and wisdom will always be a part of my journey.
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