Mothers Day: What Is Your Legacy As A Mom?
Posted: Tuesday, April 28, 2009
by Laura Trahan
During the Mother's Day season I often find myself reflecting on the legacy of my own mom just like many others do during the holiday.
This past weekend as I sat in church, I felt emotions stirred in me unlike ever before. Our pastor was telling about his own mother and the legacy she left behind. It was one of the most moving stories I have ever heard.
Recently on one of social sites, they had a questionnaire to ask your kids. Here are a few of the questions and answers from my four year old.
What is something mom always says to you?
you love me
What makes mom sad?
getting sick (I had just gotten over a stomach virus)
How does your mom make you laugh?
by making a tickling monster
What was your mom like as a child?
played with dollies
How old is your mom?
13 (my most favorite answer)
How tall is your mom?
this big as she holds her arms up to my head
What is her favorite thing to do?
lay down
This is what upset me. She didn't answer that my favorite thing to do was to help others, read to her, etc. I would have settled for making dinner or doing dishes. No, she saw me for what it was.
I guess that is the struggle. Is this what my child will remember me by? Children learn most by modeling not by what is said. Am I modeling a legacy that I do not want?
I have been convicted as I reflect on my own mother on what type of mother I myself am becoming. I don't want to be remembered for yelling, stressing or working too much.
I want to be remembered as the caring, loving, having an impact on the community through love, etc. This is my outlook on this Mother's Day, forget about the flowers and dinner. How can I be a mother that leaves a legacy of worth?
By the way, asking your kids questions about their moms makes a great gift. There are a multitude of questions to ask. Here are some other examples from our interview.
What is your mom really good at?
taking care of me
What does your mom do for a job?
you write on the computer
What is your mom's favorite food?
crackers
What makes you proud of your mom?
playing with me
What do you and your mom do together?
play with cougar together.
How are you and your mom the same?
God made us the same
How do you know your mom loves you?
you say that all the time!
What does your mom like most about your dad?
he works at home
Happy Mother's Day!
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Top-level comments on this article: (3 total)You got your answer Laura! When your four-year old was asked "What is your mommy really good at?" and the response was "Taking care of me." What mother could ask for a better legacy!Thanks Brianna! That is sweet of you to say!
I have three children and if you asked them what their Mom was like and what do you think of her, you would think they had three different Moms. I'm sure you are a great Mom. Happy Mother's Day. Linda D
Great article Laura as usual, you never disappoint me. I am always thinking of what kind of a legacy that I can leave behind for my children, this is a good idea, I want to have my kids take the same kind of interview, although it may be a little different than yours....I am, after all, just a man. and the outcome would be so different, because my "kids" are in their 30's and 40's, but hey, never to late to ask!!!! hahahahahhaha, I know I will get strange looks, they may even have me committed, ahahahahahahaha Great article, and well worth the read.....your fan, and friend ......Gary
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