Gifts that Matter on Mothers Day

When Mothers Day rolls around, most people start thinking about what gifts to get Mom to tell her they care. Sure, moms are always grateful for nice gifts on Mothers Day, but the day can mean much more. If you are like me, your mom has taught you many things just by her example, and this time of year is the perfect opportunity to say thanks.

While everyone is unique, Jesus Christ demonstrated a number of characteristics to his disciples that have passed down to this day. These examples are strong influences on mom, and as such they often exhibit the same qualities to their family.

First, of course, is faith. Certainly a Christian mom has faith in God, but from that faith springs faith in ALL things working out ” from her sons basketball tournament to the bad economy. Ill never forget all those times when I thought it couldnt be done and my moms quiet resolve that it could, and it would, got me through. Of course, life hasnt always been easy just because I had faith, but the positive attitude I got from my mom has definitely made me more creative and open to new solutions.

Generosity is a virtue that many moms shower on their families. Certainly this includes a willingness to give something of value ” a mom will share everything from money to French fries with her kids in need.

A generous spirit is equally important, and a Christian mom is often the best teacher when it comes to this quality. My friend Rob told me that he didnt know grownups were people until he found his mom crying over a difficult situation. By opening up and sharing her feelings in a loving manner, Rob learned that everyone needs love and understanding at times.

But probably the most important quality a mom can pass to her children is the gift of love. Since Ive become a mom, Ive learned that love means a lot more than I thought it did as a kid.

When I was growing up, I just wanted to know my mom was there when I needed her ” both for a hug, and even to do my paper route so I could make basketball practice. Because she was, I knew she loved me. It was that simple.

But, now I am a mom and I know its not that simple. Real love means acceptance, warts and all. Love isnt measured by getting what you want, but rather if you are willing to stick it out, even when a person doesnt deserve it. Even when I messed up and wasnt a nice person, my mom accepted me for who I was and loved me anyway.

Gifts for mom are important, because they are a chance to say thanks for being mom. But the really important Mothers Day gifts arent from us to mom at all. Instead, they come from mom who has passed on characteristics that have changed our lives forever: faith, generosity, and love.