Today is April 21st, an important day in my life. A day when I saw my mother, 10 years ago, slip off to eternity. Even these ten years later I think of her often. I look at my children and wished they knew her better. She so loved her grandchildren. Having had three sons, she loved the frilly outfits for the granddaughters.

Yet, as I remember, I remember her great love and sacrifice for her children. Just this past week I was reminded of all she overcame, leaving behind a childhood of difficult memories, to become the beautiful mom she was. Spending over two decades with her, she handed me off to another beautiful lady to be my bride. God has blessed me with two great women.

I am who I am today, because of my parents. I was truly blessed, not by perfect parents, but parents who loved me and did all they can, and yes, on the rare occasions… had to discipline me.

I see many who are not blessed like I was, but I believe my service at Shepherd is due in large part to the lives lived in front of me by my parents. She cared for so many, and so will I. Her care for children was always a part of who she was. Today, my brothers and I carry that mantel.

So today, I just want to remember this special day and a very special woman. And then go model her love for others. Won’t you too?

Jay