It’s Mother’s Day and I’m reminded that I am my mother’s daughter . . . and that’s not bad.  My mother was a good woman, very giving and kind. She was a beautiful woman. I haven’t always appreciated that. As happens with so many mothers and daughters, there was often a disconnect between us. In my youth I had misjudged her about so many things.

Yes, my mother was a wonderful person, and I miss her. I smile as I realize that the words on the shirt I’m wearing describe her quite well:  kind heart, fierce mind, brave spirit.  

I close my eyes and breathe in warmth and feelings of happiness. Ah yes, I think, whispering to my mother in heaven. Mom, I am proud to be like you — kind heart, fierce mind, brave spirit.  

May you all have a very happy Mother’s Day, filled with family and laughter and appreciation for all the women who have loved us, mentored us and given us beautiful examples of how to live with kindness, fierceness and brave spirits.