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I was gifted with an amazing grandmother. She’s gone now. I don’t think she’s very far away, because I don’t think heaven is as far away as it seems. Every time she told me she loved me she would end by saying, “And don’t you ever forget it.”

She brought me joy with her words of wisdom. She dug deep in my heart and found my feelings before I was able to express them out loud. She knew me. She had a window to my heart and soul. God gave her wisdom to see my spirit and the authority to speak into it. She taught me to hope, to believe, and most of all to forgive. I miss her every day.

I’ve been gifted a wonderful mother. She makes me crazy. She makes me laugh until I cry. She loves me with a fierce love. No one loves me like she does, because no one can love like a mother. When I see her with my children, I see the same kind of love between them that I shared with my grandmother. I see silly laughter and peaceful moments that make joy thick and tangible. I see love.

I have the gift of three children. They didn’t come easy. I dreamed them into life. God was kind enough to smile and grant me the three most beautiful treasures I will ever receive. However, I struggle. Some days I’m desperate for quiet. My house isn’t perfect and the laundry is Everest. I step on toys and raise my voice. Sometimes I’m more overwhelmed than I thought possible, but I try to remember all the lessons I have learned from the two most powerful examples I have been blessed with in my life.

I wish you all a Happy Mother’s Day. Some of you might be hurting today. You might have lost your mother, or even your child. You might be longing for the gift of motherhood and feel empty while waiting. Today might be a day mixed with joy and sorrow. Let joy win. Let the peace of your savior rule your day. I pray you find your smile today, and that your strength be renewed. Lean on His love.

To all who entered the “Desperate Giveaway,” I thank you. The winner is Rachel! Congratulations!

Rachel, please email me at jen@agirlonthedoorstep.com with your address. Your books will be in the mail on Monday. God bless you!