In Recognition of Her Own Kind of Courage

My mom was a kind, nurturing person who was tender-hearted and had a way with words. She enjoyed writing poems of encouragement as a way to help you feel better, to express her sincere love for you. There are two poems she wrote to me that stand out the most. This first one was done when I was 13 years old after I had been diagnosed with epilepsy:

To Anne, In Recognition of Her Own Kind of Courage.

This world is a tough confusing place.

Just when I think I’ve caught its pace,

That problem makes my day all wrong;

To get through this I must be strong.

But then again, I will take heart,

Because each dawn brings a brand new start!

With all my love, Mom

This next poem was written when I was 18, a freshman in college a long way from home. In reading this poem, you can see I had a praying mother who wanted me to hold on to my faith:

May the Lord’s love protect you,

His strength keep you well,

and His wisdom guide you to pleasing achievement!

All my love, Mom

I believe a mother’s prayer is the strongest and continues on for generations, for it says in the bible:

“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” – 2 Timothy 1:5

Mom always made me feel like a cherished daughter, even though I was the youngest of her 11 children, and despite her ever-declining health. Using watercolors to display her words has been my unique way to honor her, to show the world her gift and recognize her own kind of courage. It’s a comfort being able to keep her spirit alive.

Love always, Anne