There are many things that shape you into who you are today. Some of them start the moment you are born and others don't become influential until later in life. One person that has molded me in more ways than imaginable is my mom. Not because she does all the right things or knows all the right answers, but rather because of the way she lives her life. As I've grown up, I have come to realize that my character has been greatly influenced by the way she has raised me. I would not be the same person I am today without the example she has set before me. I am thankful for everything she does and everything she stands for and this is why:
She has shown me what it looks like to love people well. From strangers to family members, I have seen her selflessly love everyone around her. Through her I've learned that one of the best ways to love someone is to listen to them. By intently listening my mom makes people feel valued and accepted. She has an admirable way of reassuring others that there is always hope no matter the circumstance. As a daughter, she has made me feel like there is nothing I could do that would make her love me less. She listens without judgement. She exemplifies that love does not depend on the resources you have, but rather your willingness to be intentional with those around you.
She has shown me that the best version of yourself is the real one, mistakes included. One of the many reasons why I respect her is because she does not shy away from the mistakes she has made in her life. She is willing to be open and honest with anyone who she comes in contact with. She treats every mistake as a lesson and does an amazing job at learning from them. She doesn't let her pride get in the way of humbly admitting her faults. She has taught me that being real means being honest with where I am in life, whether that is a season of bliss or a season of struggle.
Finally, my mom has shown me what it truly means to be strong. Through the way she conducts her life, I have learned that being strong does not mean that you never break. It does not mean that you have everything together all the time. Being strong means that you can admit that you are weak. It means relying on the Lord because you know you cannot do it alone. It means remaining steadfast in Him and having faith that He turns trials into blessings. My mom constantly encourages those around her because of the way she lives her life with grace and joy. I've seen life throw her many curveballs, but her ability to keep going never ceases to amaze me.
The most incredible thing about the influence my mom has had on my life is that she seldom has to use her words. She lets her actions display her true character. Because of all these things, I am my mom's biggest fan.
