Mother's influence

Uhh, hehe, I'm still here. Before I really call it a nite, I'd leave here an article forwarded by my aunty a couple of days ago. Have a read. In light of the Mother's Day that just passed, I thank God for my mother & for all His blessings on her. I'm also thankful to mum for looking after me & the rest of my family, for her love, for her words of wisdom & for her devotion to The Lord.

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THE GREATEST INFLUENCE
by Charles R. Swindoll

2 Timothy 1:1-5

Several years ago someone interviewed the contemporary artist Marc
Chagall for a PBS program. The young, arty interviewer started the
session with a question about influences. His question was very long
and involved and exhibited his own learning along the way, giving
everybody, including Chagall, a lecture on the nature of influences
on the artist.

When the young man finally gave the artist a chance to answer for
himself, Chagall said, in the simplest way, that his greatest
influence was his mother. It took the poor young man a bit of time to
get his bearings after that.

I know of no more permanent imprint on a life than the one made by
mothers. I guess that's why Mother's Day always leaves me a little
nostalgic. Not simply because my mother has gone on (and heaven's
probably cleaner because of it!), but because that's the one day the
real heroines of our world get the credit they deserve. Hats off to
every one of you!

More than any statesman or teacher, more than any minister or
physician, more than any film star, athlete, business person, author,
scientist, civic leader, entertainer, or military hero . . . you are
the most influential person in your child's life.

Never doubt that fact!

There would never have been an Isaac without a Sarah, a Moses without
a Jochebed, a Samuel without a Hannah, a John without an Elizabeth, a
Timothy without a Eunice, or a John Mark without a Mary.

A mother's influence is so great that we model it even when we don't
realize it, and we return to it, often to the surprise of others.

As I think of my own mother's influence on me, two words come to
mind: class and zest. My mother, being a classy lady, was determined
to keep our family from being ignorant of the arts or lacking in
social graces. I have her to thank for my love of artistic beauty,
fine music, which fork to use, and no gravy on my tie. She also
possessed such a zest for life. I am indebted to her for my
enthusiasm and relentless drive. Her indomitable spirit got passed
on, thank goodness.

And so, mothers, don't ever forget the permanence of your imprint.
The kids may seem ungrateful, they may act irresponsible, they may
even ignore your reminders and forget your advice these days. But
believe this: They cannot erase your influence.

Think about how your own mother has influenced your life. Have you
ever thanked her? Have you thanked God for your mother's influence in
your life?