When did my parents become so wise?

My parents, wise far beyond their years.

More often I find myself seeking advice from my parents--or, when they aren't around, pondering what they might say. I want their wisdom. This leads to the other question of when did become wise? I remember most of my young adulthood as a constant flow of nonsense coming from them, and I was way smarter than anything they had to say. Now, I'm pretty sure I'm a blithering idiot compared to either of them. I need to sit and soak in what they have to tell me. They're wisdom will remain with me until the end of my life.

Children are constantly trying to strike out on their own, to make a unique mark upon the world, and stand sure in their own competence. That's the strange thing about growing up ... once you do, you find yourself yearning to go back home and listen the way you should have when you were too smart to know any better. Very weird. I'm glad I realized the situation before I ultimately lost the opportunity.

Perhaps I should write it down in a book? (One of the hundreds already out there). But, I don't know those other people, so I just don't quite value what they say as much as my own parents. Again, weird. You'd think wisdom would be wisdom regardless of who says it. However, when it comes from someone you highly respect, the words are far more valuable and important. I can't imagine greater wisdom on Earth than my parents and my lovely wife.

- M

Happy Mother's Day!

To all mothers, past, present, and future. You hold the hope of life in your hands. You are to be cherished, praised, and honored. Motherhood is a fine occupation, perhaps the best of them all. I love seeing the beaming smiles of mothers watching their own children--a rapturous smile if ever there was one. With all the pains and suffering which brings about motherhood, I am amazed how it never prevents fresh mothers from eagerly anticipating what is to come. Mother's are truly special.

So, yes, we set aside a national holiday to celebrate mothers. Raise your hands high and clap with all your might. We all have mothers. I hope everyone will give their mothers a big hug and say a prayer of thanks. For those gone beyond the grave, we say a prayer of gratitude and a pledge to be better. Mothers shape our lives from the beginning and on through to the end.

Happy Mother's Day!

- M

Ode to Mothers. Happy Mother's Day!

My wonderful mother, surprised when I made a perfect strike in bowling, during a perfect game ...
(or I could be remembering it a little bit wrong...)

"Mom." Who can possibly explain the depth of emotion tied up within that single word? Mothers provide comfort, love, unending patience, and steadiness in a mixed-up, crazy world. If I live to be a thousand years old, I'll never possess the wisdom, courage, or sincerity of my mother. She is a true example to be followed and I pray my life is a reflection of the beauty of her own.

When I think of the best parts of my life, my mother is a perfect example. Like anyone, she has rough patches, but I barely see them. What I do see is a life I want to emulate. She has sacrificed so much, and asked for so little, that I'll never be able to repay all of it. Maybe, if I'm lucky, I'll come close. Whatever I can do will never be enough though. She deserves so much recognition and praise. I can only thank her from the bottom of my heart.

To think of your mother is like pulling a warm blanket over your heart. Why is it that men in combat ask for "Mom" when they're hurt? Because when Mom is there, everything is alright, you're safe and home. And why is it that at sporting events we hold up signs: "Hi, Mom!" Why? Because we want our mother to know we're on television and enjoying our moment of fame. Kids want to impress their mom, so all is right in the world. If we could, we'd do a dance too.

Mom, I love you with all I am. I'm proud you're my mom and I hope you feel special this Mother's Day.

- M

How it ends--thoughts on life and death

Great stories have great endings. There are many types of endings, but typically the story builds up to a climax. Most people understand what that means, but there is another ending called the anti-climax. It's basically what happens after the big events are over. Generally the anti-climax is fairly short--likely because it isn't usually that exciting and only wraps up the remains of the story. But, it also allows the unexpected jump to a possible new story.

Life is like that too. There are the beginnings and ends, life and death, and everything in between. What's interesting is how we celebrate the very beginning, but tend to leave out the enormity of a life well lived. In a sort of way the story of our lives starts with the climactic birth and the rest is anti-climax. But, there's another way to look at it, and that's to put death at the climax of everything we've done in our long lives. Why let the entirety of life be such a letdown? I appreciate the positive attitude that our lives mean something, are rewarding, and come to satisfying conclusions.

Perhaps I'm being introspective because my dear mother-in-law just died today. Possibly. But, many thinkers have compared life to a story. Shakespeare certainly did, and philosophers beyond number, and even scientists have done so. More than anything, I want my life to be good and wholesome, filled with epic moments and terrifying cliffhangers. The life of my wonderful mother-in-law was such a story. I'll always be grateful to her for bringing my wife into the world and nurturing her into the incredible woman she is now.

Here's to you, Margaret. Heaven is a brighter place now because of you.

- M