Happy Mother’s Day, all.

“When you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know.”
— Mitch Albom

Over the years, I have mentioned my mother, Anne, many times, and have frequently sung her praises. As a teenager, I was one of the “lucky ones.” Anne was the best listener I have ever known. When I had friends over, and we all headed to the basement, eventually a number of them would go missing. All of us knew that they had wandered upstairs and were in deep conversation with Mom. Maybe they discussed girlfriend or boyfriend problems. Maybe they just wanted an adult to hear about their challenges in school or life.

Anne never expressed an opinion unless we asked for one. Her advice was always spot on…though it may not have been what we were hoping she would say. She told it like it was, but it always came from her heart. My mom had the biggest, kindest heart. Her compassion and empathy never faltered.

Anne worked so hard. Six kids in 10 years. (Keep in mind that this was long before convenience foods. I still remember when my dad was able to buy her a dishwasher.) She cooked for all of us—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My dad, Big Al, was an entrepreneur, and there were many months that money was very tight. She did it all, and she remains the best woman I have ever known.

When I was 23 years old, and my daughter, Carissa, was born, it finally hit me how hard Mom was working. At that point, when we would visit—every Sunday night for dinner—I made sure that I stepped up to the plate and helped with anything I could. Helping prepare the dinner, serving up the food, doing the dishes—I wanted to give back whatever I could to this wonderful woman. 

Anne would have turned 100 this year. In full disclosure, I still have a very close relationship with Mom. She comes around quite a bit! I can be walking through the bedroom, and I’ll hear, “Jan—this is what I know will help you.” (She always calls me Jan.) And then I’ll get a flash of a spiritual teacher I had forgotten about, an idea to solve a challenge that hadn’t occurred to me, or a strong suggestion to take a different path. And I always listen to her. After all, she’s my mom! 

Anne was a Pisces, just like my husband, Manny. They have a lot of similarities—very psychic, empathic, and a huge heart. I have told Manny on many occasions that he reminds me of my mom. I wish they could have met. They will someday, of that I am certain.

Enjoy your day, ladies. You deserve it.