DAY 10 of 50 – Mom’s Birthday

Today is Mom’s bday. She would be 99 — and she’d be furious for me telling her age.

   Mom had it tough growing up, tougher than most. But even with all the hurt, hardship, and struggle — she never let it harden her. Throughout her life she was a gentle and caring woman, and the very truest friend.

   Mom was painfully quiet and shy. Her favorite church callings were Ward Librarian, Primary Secretary, Visiting Teaching Coordinator. She preferred being in the background, while most of her friends (and Dad) were the ones upfront and in the limelight. That just wasn’t her thing. I never heard her give a talk, a prayer, or bear her testimony publicly — she didn’t even attend my sister’s Mission Farewell because she was afraid that Bishop Harris would ask her to speak (and Ted just might have tried it too).

   Years later, realizing I’d never heard her testimony, when I was about age 14, standing there in the kitchen, she quietly but firmly bore her testimony to me — just to me. It was simple, beautiful, strong, personal, and tear-filled. And it is a moment I will always cherish.

   I may not have learned to make her fabulous Divinity Candy, and I may not be quiet or shy, but just like my mom I have a testimony that is strong, simple, and clear. And one borne out of hardship and heartache – maybe different than what Mom experienced, but it has given me a newfound sense of appreciation for the trials she faced in her life.

   For her birthday, we probably would have gone to Alioto’s at Fisherman’s Wharf – or Marie Calendar’s. And she would have sneaked her dinner roll home in a sandwich bag she kept in her purse. We would have sung to her, with Dad joining in – off-key as ever. And she would have Oooooo’d and Ahhhhh’d over whatever birthday present we gave her, because she truly never expected anything and sincerely appreciated everything.

   She’s been gone 15 years now, and I miss her all the time. I miss the big things, and the little things. And I am so incredibly grateful for the amazing life she blessed me with.