As I was brushing my hair yesterday morning, getting ready for church, I was a bit surprised to see my Aunt Mary staring back at me from the mirror.  It was about twenty years ago that my father had said I looked like her, but I didn’t see it at that time.  Yesterday, it was there.  I smiled back at her and thought I’m honored if I’m like her in more ways than appearance. 

   I lived with my Aunt Mary, Uncle Lowell and Cousin Darlene during my grade school years after my parents divorced.  Although at the time I felt “different” to be from a “broken” home, not living in a classic style family, I realized later how much of a blessing it was to spend these formative years in this context.  I strongly believe my values and approach to life is due in a large part to my Aunt Mary’s parenting, love and example of living according to your beliefs. 

   On one of my last visits with her when she was caring for Uncle Lowell who had Alzheimer’s, she told me, “You have to have a lot of patience.”  It occurred to me that it was a basic characteristic of hers.  She had infinite patience with her loved ones.  Also, even when she was annoyed by someone else’s behavior, she made an effort to understand what was behind their actions or expressions.  She was a friendly, patient, giving and forgiving person, I hope I resemble her in these ways as well as appearance. 
   As Mother Day approaches, I think about all the women in my life who have given me heaping helpings of love and mentoring.  At the top of my list is Aunt Mary.  I wonder sometimes who I’d be if it were not for her stepping forward to be my mother during that time.  I will always believe she was my very special gift from God.
   She was an admirable lady!  Thank God!