As I thought about Mother’s Day this year, emotions filled my eyes, feelings swarmed my heart, and precious memories of mom flew through my head like a jet.
I wish I could spend Mothers’ Day with the most admirable woman in my life… because in all reality, I wouldn’t be swaying back and forth in my eno tied to two mango trees, near my adorable, baby pink bunk house in Mountrouis (pronounced Moh-wee), Haiti, writing a blog about mom if it weren’t for her. You may be thinking, “Well yes, HB. Obviously if it weren’t for Joni, you wouldn’t be here.” But no, I really wouldn’t be here.
Rocky Mount, NC – I remember mom singing to me and praying for me before I went to bed every night. She instilled in me the importance of thankfulness and prayer. I remember being a young girl and watching mom lift her hands in worship to our Savior at church. I was mesmerized by the emotion she poured out not just on Sunday mornings, but every day of the week. I remember running into her arms after I got baptized and feeling her embrace me. She taught me who my creator was and helped me understand the Bible. I remember her encouraging me before every single basketball game… “Run fast, jump high, my Hannah Beth.” She taught me, “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all.”
Ashburn, VA – I remember coming home from school one day and mom surprising me by re-decorating my room. She taught me how to rejoice with those who rejoice. I remember the words mom would say as I got out of the car for school… “I love you baby girl. Make good choices and remember whose you are.” Though I’m a ‘Whitaker’, she taught me that ultimately, I was the product of God’s handiwork. I remember mom asking me what God spoke to me at church or in my quiet time. She taught me that hearing God’s voice was real and a beautiful gift. I remember mom wiping tears from my face and showing me the importance of forgiveness when friends hurt me. I remember mom showing me the value of a mother’s love as she loved on orphans in Nairobi, Kenya.
Birmingham, AL – I remember mom giving me space as I attended college 12 hours away from ‘home’. She showed me how to love people from a distance. I remember mom always asking how RANSOM (campus ministry) went on Monday night. She planted in me boldness and a desire to always advance His kingdom. I remember crying from frustration of not knowing ‘what’s next?’ Mom showed me how to bring everything to the foot of the cross and rest in peace in my Father’s arms. I remember my mom coaching me on how to be patient and persevere when my 24 students were acting crazy and all I wanted to do was give up. I remember mom telling me to chase my dreams as I applied for the World Race while also reminding me that I will always be safest in God’s will.
The World Race – I remember mom extending grace as I had hard conversations with her about poor choices I had made. She taught me that nobody is perfect and grace is a beautiful thing. I remember mom being there for me when I was annoyed with living in community. She taught me the importance of being there for others to confide in. I remember watching mom minister to a man during PVT in Nicaragua (month 7). She taught me to always live with my hands open to what God has for me.
Thank you for the above and so much more. There aren’t perfect people in this world, but in my eyes you’re pretty darn close.
At PVT you told me that when you look at me, you no longer saw your “Baby Girl”, but a “Woman of God”… but what you may not realize is that you taught me how to be that woman. Thank you for praying for me everyday… For loving me when I was being a brat… For never giving up on me… For directing my path, but never forcing my steps… For reminding me that I’m chosen and worthy… But more importantly, thank you for instilling in me a love to advance His kingdom. I hope I’m just like you when I grow up.
So yes, I’m here, writing about the most admirable woman for Mother’s Day because of her love. Happy Mother’s Day, Momma – I’m so blessed to call you, “Mom”. I love ya, Mom! XOXO
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26
