Sunday, May 9, 2021, marks the first Mother's Day celebration for embracing the essence of my Mother's spirit. Following the transition of my Mother's passing on December 23, 2020 (Five months shy of her 93rd birthday, May 2, 2021), I find myself reminiscing on our mother-daughter relationship's various seasons, engagements, and pursuits, experiences, and the likes. Remembering the relentless and peaceful days, I am mindful of always remaining the Child at all ages and seasons even though the position required role adjustments to address life's circumstances.
Executing my new duties and responsibilities as her conservator and primary caregiver was far from being a piece of cake, especially when circumstances dictated taking the lead in making decisions related to her well-being and limiting her impute. My Mother was often adamant about reiterating, she was the Mother and would say, "I had you; you did not have me." Even with her fading voice during her last few days, she still gave me helpful life instructions. She genuinely imparted her wisdom, knowledge, and love in her simple, humble, and amazing fashion. I marvel at her strength abiding in all seasons. A devoted follower of the Spirit of God, amplifying her voice for peace and justice was her signature. As I increasingly embraced and acknowledged that once the Mother, always the Mother, no matter what changing conditions warrant, a great deal of intentional diplomacy governed the relationship. I stood on the message from Deuteronomy 5:16, Honor your Father and your Mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. Motivated by a renewed attitude, I moved forward with an enriched, encouraged, and enthusiastic acceptance of my new season. Understanding and accepting the aging process as a part of the family evolution is paramount and requires loving management. One of the guidelines to follow is to cling to the "Golden Rule." "So, in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…" (Matthew 7:12). With wisdom and knowledge, we can provide the same grace and mercy the Spirit of God extends to us, incorporate scripture into real-life experiences. During the latter years, the roles of Mother and Daughter adjustments became apparent, and we followed suit each passing day with mutual respect. Some days were characteristic of the tumult of the raging seas. In contrast, other days manifested into the calmness and buoyancy of the ocean waves with soothing sounds that echoed instructions to abide in peace and be still. The days that beamed and radiated like the sunrise of a brand-new day and sailing ships fading into the sea's vanishing depths as the sunset brought us joy. My Mother represented an anchor of life attached to a solid foundation that sustained, protected, supported, and encouraged my faith walk leading to open doors of opportunities. With zealous resilience, my Mother's commitment to motherhood modeled God-Spirit-filled greatness. Anna Belle Troy Mitchell, a Proverb 31 Woman, was a dynamic entrepreneur, healthcare and daycare provider, tailor, and disciple. During my sobering moments, I recognize that this combination of emotions impacts my being. Recalling the past and looking towards the future is acceptable if they do not impede my present modus operandi. I must be mindful to stay in the "NOW" and know that living in the "NOW" empowers. Recognizing I am not alone, I look to my God-given friends in gratitude for all they are and pray that the friendships continue to go beyond what I imagine and desire. As this 2021 Mother's Day approaches, I reflect deeply on how my Mother cared for the family and others, and I pray that I can follow her example and live her legacy. With gratitude and love, I give thanks, Diane Mitchell Henry |
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