Life is a tapestry of memories, where each thread is woven with a song, a scent, a place, or even an everyday object. These memories can evoke a whirlwind of emotions—joy, sadness, nostalgia—and how we respond to these feelings shapes our experiences.
Recently, every encounter with my hair dryer has filled me with deep gratitude for my mother. It’s a reminder of her unwavering selflessness. She not only dried my hair as a spirited blonde child but continues to do so in my adulthood.
About a month ago, after undergoing surgery, I found myself physically drained and emotionally fragile. Having not showered since the operation, I felt uncomfortable and desperate for a moment of peace under the warm water. Though I managed to wash my hair, the effort was exhausting. I settled on the edge of my bed, wrapped in a towel, contemplating surrendering to the fatigue. That’s when my mom entered the room, offering to blow dry my hair. She recognized my need without me having to say a word.
For the next 15 minutes, while she gently dried my hair, I was lost in my thoughts, overwhelmed with appreciation for her kindness. It was as if she knew I needed that moment of care without me needing to ask.
This wasn’t the first time she had been there for me. After giving birth, I felt a storm of emotions raging within me. It was just my mom and I in the hospital room, and I was grappling with the beauty and chaos of new motherhood. I needed to cry, to process my feelings. My mother helped guide me to the bathroom, patiently waiting outside the shower curtain while I wept, ensuring I was okay, offering me the space to release my emotions. Once I was ready to return to the world, she was there again, blow drying my hair with the same grace and love.
Last year, during the Ms. Kentucky United States pageant, I faced another moment that showcased her devotion. After a long day, I returned home to find my mother in distress over a stain on my gown. She scrambled to remove it, her love evident in her frantic efforts. On the final day, I remembered I needed to wash my hair but had undergone a spray tan, complicating matters. Without hesitation, she washed my hair in the hotel sink, all while ensuring my gown remained pristine. In that moment, I saw her true essence—selfless, loving, tireless.
Holding my hair dryer tonight, I couldn’t help but tear up. I’ve never met another woman like my mom. She has stood by me through my deepest lows—when I’ve been angry, rebellious, and lost—yet she has also cheered for me as I’ve embraced my true self. Her selflessness is something I’ve tried to decipher throughout my life, only to realize it’s simply who she is at her core. Rather than question it, I strive to reflect her love in my life.
To my incredible mother, your love has shaped me into a better woman and mother. When you encounter these moments of connection with your loved ones, take a moment to express your gratitude for their presence. These people are integral to our resilience.
For more insights on motherhood and the journey of self-discovery, be sure to check out this post about legal recognition and Make a Mom’s guide on home insemination kits for essential resources. If you’re interested in fertility, Cleveland Clinic’s podcast is an excellent source of information.
Summary: The hair dryer serves as a poignant symbol of a mother’s love, illustrating how her selfless acts have shaped the author’s life. Through various experiences, both during childhood and adulthood, the bond between mother and daughter deepens, highlighting the importance of gratitude and love in nurturing relationships.