The Many Blessings of My Parents

Today is my mom’s birthday. She would have been 103 today. She lived to be 101. This is also the month my dad died nine years ago. I think about my parents all the time, but they are really on my mind this month.

I’ve been thinking of the many blessings my parents gave me. Here are just a few.

My parents never told me to “be quiet.” Instead, they listened with interest (or at least appeared to), even when I was being silly. I think their example helped me value listening and always strive to become a better listener.

My parents enrolled me in two book clubs before I was six years old. As I recall, I received a new book in the mail every week. My parents read to me and, when I was old enough, let me read to them. The next big jump from my book club when it came to reading, was watching my dad read the newspaper every evening and then joining him when I learned to read. I loved swapping sections of the evening paper with Dad.

My parents taught me that losing and winning gracefully, were both truly winning.

My parents hugged and accepted hugs freely and actively.

My parents put few restrictions on my TV watching or outdoor activities. They preached and practiced balance in both.

My parents encouraged me in sports, even though they knew I’d never pitch in the World Series.

My parents encouraged me in music, even when my trombone practice made our dog howl.

My parents encouraged me in art, even when I couldn’t explain to them what I’d just drawn.

My parents urged me to try everything at least once, even Lima beans.

My parents taught me to respect others and expect the respect of others.

My parents didn’t scold me when I’d wake them at daybreak on a Saturday morning so they could make my breakfast after they’d both worked late into Friday evening. Instead, they moved plastic bowls and cereal boxes to a bottom kitchen cupboard and taught me how to fix my own breakfast. I’d eat in front of Bugs Bunny and Foghorn Leghorn in our family room, just outside their open bedroom door so they could keep an ear on me while catching a few more minutes of precious sleep.

And that’s just one example of the biggest blessings my parents gave to me, the patience, grace, and unconditional love that I still feel from them every day.

Thank you, Mom and Dad.