This is to all the moms out there whose wise advice has been shrugged off time and time again by their children. So Mom, I humbly admit that you have always been, and will continue to be, right.
You were right when you told me to always pack a jacket. The Nepali mountains are cold at night, especially when all I have is my long sleeve t-shirt. Now I’m a human icicle wishing I would have listened to your sage advice.
You were right when you said to wear sunscreen. The sun seems hotter and less forgiving oversees. Your wise, hourly reminders to reapply ring in my ears as I solemnly Iather myself in aloe Vera.
You were right when you told me to wear my comfortable shoes. The blisters on the back of my heels serve as a gentle reminder of you kindly nudging me to opt for my tennis shoes rather than my cute new ones.
You were right when you told me to chug water like my life depends on it. Because my splitting headache is telling me drinking another bottle of water probably wouldn’t have hurt.
You were right when you told me to eat before leaving the house. I’m now desperate for that granola bar I deemed myself “too cool” for this morning. I learned the hard way that no one is “too cool” for quietly wasting away.
You were right when you told me to listen to my body and say no every once in a while. As I lie sick in bed, I regret those late nights and poor diet decisions of fries, milkshakes and kit kat bars.
You were right when you told me to always use the restroom before heading out on an adventure. I’m remembering that now as I have to subject myself to the gross “gas station” bathroom.
You were right when you said just because something is cheap doesn’t mean I should buy it. Even though a sprite is 20 cents, that doesn’t mean I need three a day, every day. Bye bye budget.
You were right when you said it’s worth it to pay kindness to strangers. You never know who’s going to offer you a free hotel basement for 27 of your closest friends. (Don’t worry mom, it’s a good story.)
You were right when you said home is where the heart is. Nothing beats snuggling up to you, especially when I’m sick, and watching our favorite movie together.
So to all the moms reading this blog, I promise we hear you and someday we will be wondering why our kids don’t listen to us when we realize just how wise you have always been.
I love you mama! Thank you for loving me, pushing me towards Jesus and always encouraging me to chase after my dreams – even if it means 11 months away from you.
