My momma is many, many things. Wife, daughter, sister, mother, Christian, friend, teacher, listener, crafter, gardener, cheerleader ... the list goes on and on. On Monday, she will also be the birthday girl. The big 5-0. 50. Not to long ago 50 seemed like ... ancient. But as I've grown up and watched many people grow older it has become evident that 50 isn't really that old (Im sure mom would appreciate hearing me say that). When dad turned 50 he said "I was thrilled to make it to 40 ... 50 is an even greater blessing!" ....and Im sure mom feels the same way! I love that my parents have more spunk, life, and drive, than some parents do ever ... and I especially love (and feel blessed by the fact) that they have devoted a huge amount of that spunk, life, and drive to me! So, just to remind you how awesome my mom is, here 50 things I've learned from my momma in the 22 of her 50 years I've gotten to share with her (and keep in mind these are only a few things I can think of off the top of my head ... so there are, undoubtedly, many many things I will think of immediately after hitting "publish" on this post).
1. God is the most important thing. Put Him first.
2. Family rocks. You need them, so treat them well.
3. Little things matter most.
4. It's fun to be there for the big things - you won't be if you weren't there for the little things.
5. Sometimes what people need most is for you to just be with them.
6. Kids are our worlds future. They matter.
7. Hospitality is a huge deal.
8. Seriously. Open your home to people.
9. You can only get out of something what you put into it.
10. Your always learning something ... It just may not be what you expected to learn.
11. Pray. And then pray more.
12. Singing makes everything go quicker - especially washing the dishes.
13. When you feel like giving in, buck up instead.
14. ....except for the times when your really need to give in. Listen to your body. Your no good to anyone else if you are sick.
15. Doing for others is always worth it.
16. The right thing and the easy thing are seldom the same thing. Do the right thing.
17. It does no good to say something in a way a person can't hear. Chose your words and tone wisely.
18. Stand up for what is important.
19. Be passionate and don't apologize for it.
20. ...but think before you speak.
21. Often it is best to just be quiet.
22. It pays to be a people watcher.
23. Good food brings people together.
24. There are few things better than good conversation.
25. Listen to old people. They have important things to teach us - and awesome stories, too!
26. Document the past - there will always be things to learn from it.
27. Read. A lot.
28. Give people the benefit of the doubt - they deserve it.
29. Meet people where they are at. That is the only way you can help them.
30. Perception is reality.
31. Laughter is great medicine.
32. Scripture running through your mind can get you through many tough times.
33. Read the Bible. Study it closely.
34. All the knowledge in the world cannot profit you if it isn't applied.
35. Being "right" isn't always the most important thing.
36. Have reasons for what you do. It is never good to change course with every breeze that blows.
37. Be available.
38. People are more important than things.
39. Don't waste time wallowing in self pity.
40. Make time to play - housework will always wait for you.
41. Give your best. Every time.
42. Being outdoors is healing. Nature is beautiful - pay attention to it.
43. You cannot live in fear, so live in faith instead.
44. God has a plan. Be patient, it will happen in His time.
45. It pays to keep a clean house ... You never know who might stop by.
46. Everyone is good at something.
47. There is never a time to panic ... It doesn't help anything.
48. A wife's job is to be a submissive help meet ... Equal emphasis on both parts
49. Treat people like you want to be treated, and children like real people - because they are.
50. If your focus and heart are in the right place, and you are working towards the right things, the rest will fall into place.
....like I said, there is more. But you're probably tired of reading....
I am blessed beyond measure to be learning from the very best!
Those are fantastic!
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