TO ALL PARENTS:

Never underestimate the importance of what you do for your children.

In the midst of parenting, it's easy to think kids don't appreciate your efforts to teach, encourage, support, build self-esteem, create memories, etc.

When I was in 5th grade, our class planned a special program. We invited our mothers to come watch. I don't remember what it was, just that it was important.

I invited my mom, of course, but knew she couldn't come. School was a mile and a-half from home and my mother had no car. Even if she did, she didn't know how to drive. So, I accepted that she wouldn't be there.

The big day came and we were about to begin the festivities. In through the door walked my mom! I gasped and ran to give her a big hug.

To this day I remember how she looked. She wore a gray, nubby-weave car-coat. Her hair was held back on the sides by clips, leaving a cluster of curls in the back. She wore make-up and high heels--heels because that's how women dressed for important events in those days. I smiled and thought she was the most beautiful mom in the room. It was a good day.

Later I learned she had walked the distance over gravely, uneven country roads in heels! (These were the days before women actively exercised or wore sensible sport shoes.) Years later, it dawned on me how her feet must have hurt from the long walk.

The fact I remember this event with warmth so many years later tells me how impressionable children are.

Message to parents:  keep making those efforts--big and small--to show your children:

"What's important to YOU is important to me!"

 

My Mom & Dad - Bill & Marge Faris

 

 

 

(Postscript: Mom was well into her 40s when she learned how to drive--and swim! Gutsy woman.)