7 Gifts my Mom gave to me

My mom is the most amazing person I know. There is no way I could ever repay her for all that she has given me, and I am not just talking about material things.
Every parent gives their child gifts, not physical gifts, but gifts of character, personality and even habits that will last them a lifetime.
I wanted to share seven gifts that my mom gave to me, some of which she received from her mother.

1. A strong Faith

The question was never asked in my home, "Are we going to church?", it was a given. My mom faithfully serves in her local church and always encourages me to do the same.
But what made the deepest impression on me was her personal, unwavering and devoted walk with God. My mom is not embarrassed about her faith and boldly witnesses wherever she goes.
All of her Co-workers know that she is a Christian and respect her for it. Without my mom's example of her steadfast walk with God and encouragement, I would not be where I am today.

2. Love

I've never once doubted my mom's love for me; it was always evident by her words and deeds. We have never once hung up a phone conversation or parted without saying "I love you" first. Something I feel that is very important. Her love for me was always a reflection and illustration of Christ's love for me.

3. Steadfast

My mom's name is "Petra", which means "Little rock"; a true reflection of her nature. She is solid in her faith, steadfast in her walk with God and true to her character. You can depend upon my mom and know that her word is to be counted on.

4. Hard work

My mom taught me the value of hard work  and to be thorough in my task. You never did a so-so job when my mom was around. I am so thankful that she did; this gift has served me well throughout all of my jobs and really in every area. 

5. Forgiveness

My mom, though she has gone through much in her life, never became bitter but instead reached out with forgiveness. She never allowed hurt to become hate and never held a grudge.

6. Generosity

My mom never taught me to give God 10%, it was always more. She also sought to meet the needs of those around her. I watched ,so often, my mom give from her own belongings to help someone else, never holding back. She's never worried about money to pay her bills because she knew that God would meet her needs just as he promised.

7. Laughter

I have witnessed many people go through trials, sufferings and heartaches. Many times these people lose their ability to smile. I am very grateful that my mom never did. She never allowed her joy to be stolen from her and I am grateful that she didn't!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Just in case you're wondering, my mom is not perfect but she has, through her example and faithful walk with God, blessed me with these and many other gifts that I will cherish forever and I will seek to pass them on to my children.
I am so glad that God gave me the mom I have and I am proud to call her my friend!
I love you so much, Mom!!!