Amazing Grace

A Tribute to My Marvellous Mom

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Grace can be defined as simple elegance, refinement or beauty of form, manner, motion or action. My mother on the other hand, is a very awkward character and by this term and definition, does not truly reflect her given birth name Grace. Growing up quite poor, her life was a trying one, having from a young age to sacrifice for her younger siblings and denying herself many opportunities for their benefit.

She grew up rugged and a bit rough around the edges in many instances, however it does not define who she is. Always considered the ugly duckling of all her siblings, since her complexion became darkened from long hours in the sun, going to help her parents in the market or walking to work during the time period when colour reflected class and being fairer meant a higher rank. She never allowed such notions however to determine who she would become.

*My mom with her family (She's in the 2nd row to the extreme left)* https://steemitimages.com/DQmWza8gBaKbmN4139Mvk8D8uSDnCX7iDBC9wprLt7YbgYk/momfam2.jpeg

Instead of allowing the setbacks of not having completed school, or getting a good education like her brothers and sisters, she willingly chose to give of herself for them, so that they could have a better chance. She instead chose to help her parents in the market and even take on the role of mother, being the second eldest when their mother passed away, while her eldest sister completed teacher’s training college at a very young age. But I truly believe that these character shaping events, surely crafted my mother into the woman worthy of her name.

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Grace; incorporating the exercise of love, kindness, mercy, favour, compassion, with a disposition to serve one another. This definition better reflects my mom. Ever since I’ve known myself, my mother has constantly and consistently been a hard, persistent worker. Diligent and proficient in every task set before her. She would always complete tasks and never said no to the things we asked her to do. Be in school drama outfits, help with craft projects, cooking and baking for events. My mom is always up to the challenge. The most helpfulest helper ever.

*Mom and Me* https://steemitimages.com/DQmYuMjs1qWaQdtyjvLFPPpYZVq9cSA1QzV9mYKGAouCc47/mom%20and%20me.jpg

She willing volunteers at church and constantly offers her support and hands in anything needed to be done. Like one of the Levites, she dutifully took on the responsibility of taking care of the church’s maintenance when it was seen as a hard undertaking by others. Nothing was too difficult to do for God. Her unwavering service to Him and to others is definitely one that I admire.

In many ways, she inspires me to be that sacrificial, dutiful, persistent and diligent individual she emanates every day.

Even though at times we know she finds it difficult to be affectionate and loving because of how she grew up, she never failed to show it in her acts of service (which I later figured out was her primary love language). Even though her words may not be typical ones of a mom, even though she doesn’t fit the “mould” of society’s definition of a mother. My mom has been there every step of the way. Someone I know I can always count on to take up the baton when I fall behind in the race. There never was a day when she didn’t have lunch or breakfast all prepped ready and waiting. She still manages our home and ensures we are well taken care of.

What makes her even more of a blessing is that she does all this while coping with Rheumatoid Arthritis. This debilitating condition has her constantly in pain, with stiff and swollen jobs. Makes her excessively tired and still she fights through without complaint. She even insists that she does tasks when we offer help (maybe she doesn’t trust us – LOL ). Her courage, determination, endurance and perseverance have been truly notable traits in her life. One can’t help but recognize it.

*Mom and Me *https://steemitimages.com/DQmQ6coG4aJ74zf8JXSmvDec8SsUUNGZuDbLExfo8DPuCps/mom4.jpg

A spiritual woman by nature, my Mom is someone who constantly prays for me and seeks my best interest always. She is one who gets mad when I am wronged by others, but still corrects me when I am at fault. I am grateful for the many corrections and sometimes gnawing on my ears to get things done correctly and orderly, even though in the moment I may find it highly annoying or burdensome. I see the true value of such learning moments and appreciate them greatly.

Mom giving me *The Look* https://steemitimages.com/DQme8pkDgGv1dzhDPChF7v25hLW2QeLpcgkx5WjH43Sdinc/mom5.jpg https://steemitimages.com/DQmU5cRmiWGMLYp2Sf91sA3xdntBBk2Dic1cdSuSgjzLdHY/grace2.jpg

Grace; a name made popular by the Puritans in the 17th century by the Puritans, as it reflected the divine unmerited favor and love of God toward mankind, the mercy of God, as distinguished from His justice, also any benefits His mercy imparts; divine love or pardon; a state of acceptance with God; enjoyment of the divine favor. The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. If anything My Mom reflects the true grace reflected by God toward mankind, with her everyday actions. His compassion and tender heart, as she would instantly without hesitation make a stray her own. His mercy and forgiveness when I would go against her wishes and she would love me anyways. His unconditional love even in those moments I disappoint or hurt her.

*Blessed to call her My Mom* https://steemitimages.com/DQmYf1n8jABBt1h6V7srrngQh3Rve4cghsigzyvDJv2mu2W/mom3.jpg

My Mother reflects the character of God and His glory shines through her every day in her life. It certainly is something I strive daily to achieve that others may see Him also and draw closer to Him. My Momma-G has left a lasting impression and her life pushes me to strive to be the best version of myself in every area of my life. I am truly privileged that God blessed me with a Mom like her. He knows who His perfect pairs are and she truly was the perfect pair for me. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for My Mom. Thank You Mom for being Amazing Grace.