Honor Thy Mother

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I write occasionally about the ways in which my father influenced my independence, my decision making skills, and other traits that are very much woven into the fabric of my personality. But it is not often that I write about the ways in which my mom has shaped me as well. And today perhaps I should.

My mom, Pam, is a lead-by-example parent. She feels strongly about her own beliefs but never judges or puts down those with differing viewpoints. She accepts everyone as equals. Her approach is subtle; she's a great listener and always supports my plans to save the world, no matter how wacky!  

As I've grown older, I've been able to more clearly identify some specific things that make me truly appreciate the kind of parent she was to me. Some women are defined by motherhood in an absolute way. The kids' hobbies become her only hobbies, and homework/art projects/science fair submissions are mission critical and appear on each day's to-do list. Thankfully for me, this does not describe my mom.

While a loving and committed mother, she was very much her own person with her own hobbies. Front and center of those hobbies is, and always will be, tennis. She has been very active in the tennis community since before I was born and still plays at a very competitive (national) level, no doubt frustrating scores of players twice her size and half her age.  

She has instilled in me the notion that you're never too good to practice.  And that progress isn't necessarily about your win-rate, but about the self-improvement you've made through hard work and dedication. Despite more than a handful of trips to recreational tennis' greatest stage, she remains passionate about her athletic journey.

The last ten years have thrown a few major curve balls at us. It maybe would have been easy for her to settle into a dreary pocket of self-pity, with sadness for things lost.  Instead she has paved a new path for herself. A path that has led to experiences well outside her comfort zone (ahem, salsa dancing) and, I think, widened the way she sees the world.  

She has shown me, and everyone around her, what it means to venture into the unknown with grace.  That you don't need to know what lies around every corner, just to know that you're strong enough to face it. Whatever it is. 

So when I talk about my mom, it is always with pride and genuine appreciation for the things she's taught me.  I am grateful to have a truly positive role model in my life.

And what should every girl get to do once with her role model?  ROAD TRIP!!

My mom and I are leaving in a couple of weeks on a 2,200-mile adventure. I'm so excited to get to share this experience together. I'll be posting some pics to d&d, so be on the lookout. On the lookout literally and figuratively please....if you see us stranded on the side of the road, call AAA.  

Happy Mother's Day!