Ooh, this one is hard and easy at the same time! Its easy because I have a great relationship with my parents, but its difficult because there is so much I could say that its hard to put it into words to really do it justice.
As I was reflecting on this, I remembered a write up I did for a book for Mom and Dad that my siblings and I made them for their anniversary. It really says it all the best, so I will re-post what I wrote then - its still all 100% true today! Here goes:
Most people are embarrassed by their parents. Maybe it’s what they wear; maybe it’s the things they say. But I have never been embarrassed to have Mom and Dad as my parents. Not even as a teenager! I’ve always been proud that they are mine.
Mom and Dad have also had a huge
impact on me with their example of faith and service to God. I remember coming
downstairs in the morning and Mom would be eating breakfast at the table
reading her Bible. That simple act of dedication and discipline really had an effect
on me. I also remember being a teenager and talking to Mom about some huge
decision that affected her and Mom’s attitude at the end of it was “God knows
and He’ll do what’s right and in His will.” I specifically remember thinking how much God
must be in every part of Mom’s life, and how I hoped for myself to one day be
like that, too. Both Mom and Dad have
also always been an amazing example in their dedication to the church, one that
continues to impress and inspire me.
Mom and Dad are also the best
when it comes to their commitment to their family – to each other, to their
children, to their parents and in-laws, to their church family. So much time, effort, and tears are put into
their family and everyone in those circles feels their love and support.
Mom is my biggest role model and
the person that I aspire to be in so many ways. I feel like I am at this beautiful age where I have so much I can learn from her. She is the best example to be
of a loving, faithful wife; of a supportive, patient mother. She exemplifies
the kind of daughter and daughter in law that I want to be – one that loves
selflessly and gives endlessly. If I am
even half the parent she is I will have done a good job! Mom has always given
me room to be myself and pursue my own interests, one of the greatest gifts of
all.
While I am a lot like Mom, Dad
has given me some of his qualities too. Dad loves to make connections with
people – Dad had many hearts poured out to him on a bench in the Shopper’s Mall
while waiting for the ladies to finish shopping. Dad also is always at the
ready with a funny anecdote or story from his past…most of which we’ve heard
already but love to hear told over and over again (always told with tears
streaming down his face, of course! Even before the funny parts!). I think my Daddy
also exists simply to give me joy. He is good-natured and everyone’s friend.
1 comment:
You have always made us proud, Janna. Love ya.
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