Happy Mother’s Day! We appreciate you! I am so grateful that God created moms. Mother Teresa was never a biological mom, but she taught us so much about what would help each of us to live a fuller more joyful life.
Mother Teresa, a humanitarian, was a vessel of God’s love. Her life mission was to shower compassion on orphans, the poor, the sick and any other marginalized people group. She became a nun at 18 and spent the rest of her life pouring out love to the destitute of India.
Mother Teresa was a powerful, yet humble servant of God. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. However she declined to attend the traditional ceremonial banquet. Instead she requested the money be used to feed the hungry. She also was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Reagan in 1985. Let’s take a moment and reflect on some of her teachings.
“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” This simple truth will not only brighten the lives of people we encounter, but will have a lasting affect on us. Positivity is contagious and so desperately needed in our world. Let your light shine brightly and let it shed hope to another.
“Be the living expression of God’s kindness. Kindness in your face; kindness in your eyes; and kindness in your smile.” Kindness is a universal language of acceptance, appreciation and peace. Kindness does not require special skills or wealth. It merely needs a willing heart.
“”I can do things you cannot. You can do things I cannot. Together we can do great things.” As a mom I especially would emphasize this idea to my children when they were younger. Teamwork and the idea of acknowledging all levels of skill is a great foundation for mutual respect. We need to approach life in a humble but confident manner. The burden is much lighter when you share it with others.
“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.” Mother Teresa relied on her faith to guide her actions as she ministered. She touched people one by one. Her example of selfless service is how you can make a difference a little at a time. Never hesitate to reach out to others even if you feel your contribution doesn’t make a difference. God has created this world as interdependent on one another. We each need to give and receive acts of service.
As you put together a jigsaw puzzle…some pieces seem insignificant. When the puzzle is completed those missing pieces stand out. Examine how your little piece of the puzzle fits into the bigger landscape of this world.
As we celebrate mothers, take a moment and reflect on how Mother Teresa may encourage you through this journey of life. Her perspective offers hope, love, and empowerment.
Rev. Dr. Theresa C Taylor is Executive Director of Seek the Son Ministries. Her website is www.seektheson.org. Opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
