May 7, 2009

Your Mother Should Know...

Try to imagine that you're stuck in a room that has caught on fire. You can't find a way out and each second you're one step closer to death. After failed attempts to escape your doom, a hand grabs you and you are pulled to safety.

What words could you put together to adequately express how thankful you are to be rescued? Even if you found the words, which your hero understand? Now, imagine that hero saving you every day of your life. What would you say then? Would it matter?

Some people think Mother's Day is a cheap excuse for women to get gifts, flowers, or jewelry. Perhaps that's what it has become, but hardly what was intended. Mother's Day is an opportunity to attempt thanking your mother for years of devotion, loyalty, advice, and love. Unfortunately, similar to the scenario mentioned earlier, it's very complicated to adequately express how you feel. Sadly, the cliche bouquet of flowers or box of candy is a sad excuse of a gift.

My mother and I have a very dynamic relationship. While we fall into the appropriate social roles, we are able to communicate better than a mother to son relationship. In my opinion, our closeness is due to the respect I have for my mother. A woman so bold, so driven, and strong I sometimes forget that she's my mother and see her as a soldier. She has the whole world in her hands and on her shoulders but doesn't stray from the path. Working so hard without recognition and never complaining.

Don't get me wrong, the lady has some flaws, but then the finest diamonds have imperfections. One day I might give her crap because she can't work the remote control, the next day, she will explain Alan Greenspan's theory of economics as if it were her own. For heaven's sake, the woman is 5 feet tall but can be one of the most intimidating adversaries.

Since my accident, she put everything aside to focus on me. Her entire life was mangled but she just kept pushing. I feel guilt and regret that because of me, my mother has had to compromise. However, it gave me a new perspective about a mother's love. Such devotion, that their life must be put on hold for the sake of her child. In essence, my own personal Jesus. The wise elder I seek for advice, but one who I ask for forgiveness, and sadly, the one who pays for my sins.

This Mother's Day, no amount of flowers or boxes of candy will suffice. Words fall short and gestures are only pantomimes of feelings too big to explain. I am lucky that such a hip, down to earth lady is my mom. One day, I'll find the right words to say but for now I'll borrow someone else's.

"My mom is a neverending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being.  I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune."  ~ Graycie Harmon