A Miyagi Mom

I peeled potatoes, sliced strawberries, stirred pots, washed dishes, and every other mind numbing, finger cramping task a mother can impose on a daughter. I folded clothes, collected hangers, and learned 17,000 uses for "plain, white hand soap"; all the while we talked. And talked and talked and talked. My mother earned the right to know every important detail of my life simply by listening patiently to every insignificant detail. Meanwhile, she Miyagi'd me.

For any readers who may have been unfortunate enough to have missed out on the Karate Kid dynasty, Mr. Miyagi was a wise teacher who taught young Daniel expert Karate moves with the use of routine chores. Unbeknownst to Daniel Mr. Miyagi also slipped in respect, discipline, and compassion. Sneaky, right?

My mom was a Myagi. From the kitchen counter I learned more life lessons than I can recount about patience, respect, creativity, ingenuity, hospitality, and godliness. Domestic tasks have gotten a bad rap in recent decades but the truth is, in the functions of the fairer sex I learned the strength and peace of not just being lady-like but Christ-like.

Today is Mothers Day, and while the pain of missing my own mother and of not yet being one myself is enough to make me want to hide and spend the day in my own sorrow, I did not. I got up, went to worship, taught Sunday School, congratulated the mother's along my path, even accepting the well-meaning but misguided Mother's Day wishes sent my way with a smile. Why? Because the joy of The Lord is my strength and my Mom taught me so.

I am grateful to be able to celebrate today the women in my life who wonderfully made me an aunt. As well as celebrate my mom who parents me even today.

Thank you, Mom, for everything I learned while you taught me something else.