On Mother’s Day, I think first of my Mom.  Mom is strong and determined who overcame a terribly challenging childhood to be a tremendous influence on myself and my 3 sisters.  

I think of Dad’s mom. A lady who worked the switchboard in a college in Montreal for over 40 years,  into her 80’s and also of was of very strong character and overcame a lot to raise 3 children in a small flat in Verdun (Montreal) in 30’s, 40’s and 50’s.

I think of my mother-in-law, who battled health challenges and never lost her commitment to care and provide for her 4 children.

I think of my son’s mom, who transferred the strength of her mom to instilling the same in her son and who is a person of high character, strength and integrity.

I think of my 3 sisters who have all become tremendous mothers themselves, passing on the torch of care and instilling the life lessons that are building character and strength in their kids for the next generation.

Truth be told, I think of these ladies more than once a year.  There are many more in my life not mentioned here, all linked by strength of will, empathy and selflessness and work ethic.

It is our duty as men to make sure our sons know that moms are most often the pillar of the family and should never be taken for granted.

There are obstacles that mothers’ face that many of us males can not begin to understand.  With that in mind, respect, gratitude and appreciation through our actions becomes the very least we can do.