Let it Go - Jewell Utt
Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:31 (NIV)
My mom was a gentle, God fearing woman. She worked hard for her family. Leaving her country she traveled to the USA, to work as a nurse. She wanted a better life for her seven children and her husband.
After a few months, she sent for us in groups. She began her career as a nurse and worked up to a director in the hospital. She earned a higher degree in the USA, as did my dad. He, also, worked his way up to be a director in his area of the hospital. But mom was the pioneer. She paved the way for us to have a better life and a better education, in the land of opportunity.
Throughout my life, I felt the result of having working parents. We lived a good life, had all our needs met, but I yearned for relationship. The Ozzie and Harriet model failed to reveal the real demands of everyday life. When I had my own family, complete with joys and trials, I realized all my mom sacrificed.
My life was comfortable as a result of her devotion and foresight. When I raised my kids, I was present, and determined to offer myself. In the end, I’m sure they had needs that went unmet. We live in a time of self awareness, honesty, and openness. But the times my mom lived, were of quiet strength, wisdom, selflessness, and hard work.
She gave me the best gift of all. The example of a Godly and dedicated woman. I’ve let go of what ifs and past desires. Dwelling on what was not, is unhealthy. Focusing on all that was, is a worthy goal. It respects her legacy and praises all her hands have done.
Have you let go of past hurts? Don’t allow an unhealthy focus on yesterday, to hinder your today.
Dear Lord, Thank you for mothers. You knit us together in their wombs and we should rise up and call them blessed for all they gave. Forgive us for sometimes forgetting their good deeds. Help us to praise the goodness of their lives. Thank you for mom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
