A Mother's Day Tribute

It's Mothers Day in America! Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Last week one of young mothers in our church was named the "National Young Mother of the Year" in New York City! We are all so proud of Sheri Carlstrom - who has also been our part-time Communications Director at Sonrise!

One of the things that was shared at the American Mother's gathering where Sheri was honored is that Mothers are doing more than laundry and cooking around this country ... mothers are rasing a nation!

Think about it - is there anyone with more influence and impact on a life than a mother? (NO!)

... Mother's shape our earliest perceptions of life!
... Mother's provide for us and protect us!
... Mother's encourage us when we need encouragement!
... Mother's discipline us when we need correction!
... Mother's pass on to us the heritage and tradition of life!

And no person in a nation (or on this planet) can even exist without a mother!


Today I especially want to honor my mother (Lucille) ... a single mother for most of my childhood (difficult to do in any era, but especially during the 1960's) ... a music teacher who instilled in me a love for songs (bought me my first guitar and forced me to learn piano even when I wanted to quit - thanks Mom!) ... she figured out how to raise three boys on a teacher's salary ... she was the first significant influence on my life of faith ... and she continues to be one of my biggest fans!

I would also like to honor my mother-in-law (Betty) ... a generous and hard working woman who has been very kind to me and to my family ... a lover of basketball (especially the NBA!) ... a great example of steadfast faithful love ... and the mother of my wonderful wife!

And I want to honor the mother of my children (Kathy) ... a beautiful and Godly woman ... a gracious wife ... a compassionate nurse ... a disciplined student and teacher ... an amazing athlete ... a passionate dancer ... and the love of my life!


So here's to you Mom! Thanks for your influence ... thanks for your sacrifice ... thanks for giving birth ... thanks for impacting the future ... thanks for raising a nation!