Christmas 2009 Memory #1: "Marmee..."

I was newly married when I first read Little Women.  I loved it.  A story of women being and doing good, exemplifying loyalty, strength, devotion, charity and fostering relationships.  The girls were influenced by a strong and kind mother whom they referred to as Marmee.

After finishing that book, I began occasionally calling my mother "Marmee".  Why?  Because, like Margeret March, she is an exceptional lady.  She really tries to be kind and good.  And she actively raised her children to adopt those philosophies.  Even in hard days,  as a young mom working full time and doing internships for school and really trying to make ends meet, she taught us the importance of giving.  She taught us (mostly by example) that no material possession is worth clinging to, but should be given freely to one who is in need.  And further, not to judge, but to give because it is our responsibility to be giving.  She taught us that everyone deserves love and a listening ear, and a break.

During the holidays especially, she tried to provide opportunities for her children to give and serve.

*We went to homeless shelters and churches and served soup.
*I remember when I was about 10 or so, we hid in a back room as Santa's elves ready to pick out gifts from the Christmas bags for homeless kids. 
*I remember going to someone's home while they were away (an outing arranged by my mother) and cleaning their house  and other secret services depending on her friends' needs.

She really wanted us to see what we have.  It was more than that, though - She taught us (and teaches us), that it is not about us having and others not having.  There is no need for self-righteous acclamation upon our offerings of service.  We are all in need.  This is why we must give.  It is in the giving that we really understand who we are and why we are here.




Jesus, when giving His sermon on the Mount said;

"But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth."

-Matthew 6:3

My Marmee.

-My boys and my Marmee, Thanksgiving Day 2009-

Once I was at a family gathering.  My mother (who was not present) came up in the conversation.  Story after story began emerging of quiet acts of kindness and help she gave.  We were all surprised to hear that each of us had been helped and quietly cared for.  She doesn't think about it or mention it or act like it's a sacrifice.  And I know there are times when nobody knows.

To her siblings, she is known as the truly compassionate one.  It's because she is not afraid to seek out those who are left alone in the dark trenches socially, mentally, physically, spiritually.  She doesn't shirk from trying to revive and to help them.  To love them.

And it's not only during Christmastime.  My dear Marmee is like that all the time.

I guess this isn't exactly a 2009 memory.  But this season I felt a keener sense of gratitude for her example.  It is one I am determined to better live up to.


I'm very, very lucky she is my Marmee.