Dear First Born:

I've always loved you best because you were my miracle. You were the genesis of a marriage and the fulfillment of young love. You sustained me through the hamburger years, the first apartment (furnished in Early Poverty), and my first mode of transportation (feet).

You were new, had unused grandparents, and enough clothes for a set of triplets. You were the original model for a mom who was trying to work the bugs out. You got the strained lamb, the open safety pins and three-hour naps. You were the beginning.

Dear Middle Child:

I've always loved you best because you drew a tough spot in the family, and it made you stronger for it. You cried less, had more patience, wore faded hand-me-downs, and never in your life did you get anything first. But it only made you special.

You were the one I relaxed with, and realized a dog could kiss you and you wouldn't get sick. You could cross the street by yourself long before you were old enough to get married . . . and you helped me understand the world wouldn't collapse if you went to bed with dirty feet.

You were the child of my busy, ambitious years, and without you, I would not have survived the job changes and the tedium and routine that is marriage.

To The Baby:

I've always loved you best because while endings are generally sad, you are such a joy.

You readily accepted the milk-stained bibs, the lower bunk, the cracked baseball bat, the baby book that had nothing written in it except a recipe for graham-cracker pie crust that someone had jammed between the pages. You are the one I held onto so tightly. You are the link with my past, a reason for tomorrow.

You darken my hair, quicken my steps, square my shoulders, restore my vision, and give me a sense of humor that security, maturity, and durability can't provide. When your hairline takes on the shape of Lake Erie and your own children tower over you, you will still be my baby.

. . . from a mother . . .

- Author Unknown -

I read this in a magazine a long time ago from a mother who was dying of cancer. I remember thinking at first how sad this was, and then I thought about how sad it is that we sometimes wait until the last moment to tell the people who are the most important in our life how much we love them.  Sometimes we wait too long and don't get the chance . . . and then I couldn't help but think of my own three babies:

Teri

My First Born: I've always loved you best because I admire your ability to accept everyone just as they are, with no strings attached.  You have a God-given talent in understanding the needs of other people and instinctively knowing how to love them and help them.  You are my firstborn, and no one else can ever take that place.

Greg

My Middle Child: I've always loved you best because you have made me so proud in everything you've accomplished.  I love you for your "peacemaker" abilities; to do whatever is possible to bring peace between others.  I love the loving and caring father you have become. You are the best! and besides, you have always been my favorite son.

Misty

My Baby: I've always loved you best because of your ability to look in someone's eyes, and see into their hearts.  This gives you the opportunity to reach out in love and compassion. And most of all, I've always loved you best  because I don't know what I would have done without you during those times when I needed you the most.

I love each of you the best for everything you are and for all the very special and unique qualities you each have to offer.  I was truly blessed by God when He laid each one of you in my arms, and could not have asked for more than the 3 beautiful gifts I received.

. . . from your mother

"A Mother's Prayer"

I know you're listening as I lay me down to sleep
It's not for me I ask, but for my children's souls to keep
It seems the world is going crazy
And though I need to do my share
Could you please take them under wing
Watch over them especially
Keeping them safe from everything
This is a Mother's Prayer

I know you're listening in the silence of this night
The news is blistering but I hold on to your light
And though there's darkness all around us
By my faith I know you're there
Give me the strength to lead the way
Send me the words I need to say
Use me to guide them day by day
This is a Mother's Prayer

I know I can't do this by myself
I thank you for your help

I know you're listening so I know I'm not alone
I feel you're here with me as we all face the unknown
Could you return us to your garden
Where no one's hurt and no one's scared
Free us from pride and bitterness
Keep us so close we won't forget
Teach us to love as You love
This is a Mother's Prayer

"Family and Friends Index"		"Book Of Life"

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~ StinaLisa ~

  

A Mother's Prayer
Recorded by Melissa Manchester

The music playing is a condensed version of "A Mother's Prayer", and is for entertainment, educational and evaluation purposes only. Titles have full copyright by their respective artists and record companies. Please show your support for the artists who gave us this great music by purchasing their CDs.

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