M O T H E R

M - is for miracles: the miracle of birth and

the miracle of managing the matchless madness of

raising a family. And, for the memorable life

messages you model - morals, mercy, modesty,

manners, mom-magic...



O - is for the oasis you offer open-heartedly

during those "off" days. Opalescent your outlook

- an optimistic island amid our oceanic life

odyssey.



T - is for the thoughtful threads of truth,

tolerance, and triumph with which you tenderly

wove the tapestry of our toddler-hood trek.

Touch, and transcend trepidation and fear. Toil,

and transform the seed to its destiny.



H - is for the humble harbor of home, where you

harmoniously handled the headstrong and headlong

teens with health, hope, and heart. And for the

unsung Heroine we honor you as today.



E - is for the everyday life examples you, as a

mother, effortlessly exude - endurance, economic

education, empathy, extraordinary energy,

exercise, ethics, encouragement, empowerment...

Experiential "echoes", silent peals to your

children, for all of time.



R - is for the River of Riches, which you

regularly replenish with your refreshing rain,

and from which your resourcefulness readily

radiates. Ripples or rapids, your River runs,

respectfully receptive to all God's relations.

[ by Shirley Harshenin (shirley@cablelan.net) -- {used with permission} ]