‘Oh, no! I didn’t get you anything!’
That’s often our reaction when someone hands us a package, isn’t it? Especially at this time of year. Rest assured, this is not a Christmas present—please don’t worry that you didn’t get me something or scramble to do something in return. This is instead a means for me to carry on a tradition, to fondly remember my dear mother, and to share my heart with you. I hope you will enjoy the ornament enclosed and be touched by my remembrances…
Two things stood out about my Mom: One, her talent for handicrafts. She was an avid crocheter and quilter, and used her abilities to show love and kindness to those around her. Mending clothes, sewing curtains and quilts, and teaching others to sew and quilt were just some of the ways she used her gift to touch the lives of those around her. The second thing that Mom was known for among her friends and family was the unwavering peace in her heart because of her trust in Jesus as her Lord and Savior. Two conversations with my Mom stand as bookends to her two-and-a-half-year struggle with cancer: The first, in June 2010, when I learned of her cancer diagnosis and the last, in January 2013, as I arrived home for what was to be my final visit with Mom. Each of those conversations overflowed with the peace in her heart: Although there were many unknowns to her condition, she had no doubt of God’s love her for and of her future in Heaven with Him. This confidence came not from her being a good person, but completely from her trust in Jesus as her Savior.
I no longer have my Mom with me, but there are many fond memories I cherish. One of these is making hand-crafted ornaments together at Christmastime, a different style each year. The stuffed felt mittens were a favorite of mine… Mom loved the cardboard cut-out gingerbread men. It is my pleasure to carry on this tradition by sharing this ornament with you. Though I miss my Mom, I treasure the opportunity to touch others with my talents as she did, and treasure the peace that she had and that God has placed in my heart as well.
Thank you for allowing me to share my tradition and my heart with you!
I wish you and your family joy and peace this holiday season and in the New Year.