I’d like to begin with a thank-you to my grandma. She was the strong, silent type, who caught everything, and had a way of seeing you as you truly were - raw and honest. It was so easy to love myself because she loved me so unashamedly. She taught me that family is built around sharing together, both in the good times and bad. And that truly strong women not only do not give up, but they also forgive, even when an apology is not forth coming. She also showed me the best way is to make peace with people in my heart, at all costs. My grandma exuded love always! No matter who I brought home, her comfort and strength broke through the toughest hearts.
There are many other women I want to thank. My mother taught me that true love has no strings or expectations. It stands, protects, forgives, and hopes always, as in First Corinthians 13. Our family friend, Cindy (my second mom), taught me of a transparency and vulnerability that brings courage. She taught me hospitality and the joy of sharing life - meeting people where they are. Women like my best friend’s mom and grandma, Johanna and Evelyn, taught me to believe myself. They were always challenging me to be a woman of character and integrity, even if I was the only one standing. This strength of conviction, this firm foundation of family relationships, and their charity to others have so shaped my heart!
My host mom, Ann, was the example of the type of mother and wife I want to be. She was the one who changed my mind on the idea of getting married. Ann taught me that honor, submission, and strength in a marriage are based on deep friendship. She was able to make homeschooling, running a household, and all of her charitable activities seem so easy. She also taught me not to undermine my husband; yelling didn’t make the point in an argument, and it is perfectly normal to make date night a necessity. She was gentle, kind, creative and passionate, serving herself to her family and community gracefully. It takes a special woman to open her home to a complete stranger, and live that vulnerably with eyes on every part of your family life.
These beautiful women are gems in my life! They are gifts from heaven who shaped me, challenged my thinking, and loved me completely! I am blessed by their lives intertwining with mine, all in the perfect timing of the LORD! They are so important to my journey out of Normal to Destiny, and I am forever grateful! I hope for many happy Mother’s Days to you all.
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| Johanna and Evelyn Cindy Cindy Ann with her daughter |
Guest Blog Writer: Zona Garrett, NtoD Sales Consultant
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