White Carnation

Today I keep a white carnation in my heart for the woman who gave me life, cleaned up my messes, cried for my soul, sacrificed herself for her children always, was always home when I got off the school bus, hugged and kissed and slobbered all over me, dressed me for church, kept long night vigils for me when my life hung in the balance, let me cry when I was bullied, walked me home from school when the deep snow scared me and I wasn’t sure I’d find my own way, wanted only the very best for me, made home the place I always wanted to come back to, and who battled cancer heroically and showed us what a good death looks like. I owe you, Mom. I miss you.

If you wear a red carnation today, thank the Lord. And call your Mom. Don’t take her for granted because she’s a hero. If your Mom has passed, walk through the hallways of memories and thank God today that you were blessed to know such a woman.

As I walk through the museum of my memories,
I owe you—for your time. Day and night.
I owe you—for your example. Consistent and dependable.
I owe you—for your support. Stimulating and challenging.
I owe you—for your humor. Sparky and quick.
I owe you—for your counsel. Wise and quiet.
I owe you—for your humility. Genuine and gracious.
I owe you—for you hospitality. Smiling and warm.
I owe you—for your insight. Keen and honest.
I owe you—for your flexibility. Patient and joyful.
I owe you—for your sacrifices. Numerous and quickly forgotten.
I owe you—for your faith. Solid and sure.
I owe you—for your hope. Ceaseless and indestructible.
I owe you—for your love. Devoted and deep.

–Charles R. Swindoll, Strong Family