Several of my friends shared their thoughts and photos of their mothers, in celebration of Mother’s Day.

Deb Haas

My mother never told me what to do, rather she taught by living her life as an example of how to be a good person, and how to treat others.  She was kind, always.   She treated everyone she met with respect, and a smile.  She saw the good in people.   How lucky I was to have her– I hope I’m good at those things, too. She was my greatest champion and friend.   When I spoke at her funeral, I said, “I sure am glad I had her for my mom for 33 years, rather than someone I didn’t like very much for 70!”  The time with her was too short, but I am reminded of how fortunate I have been when I meet someone new who knew her.  Almost to a person, they take my hand and say, “You’re Linda’s daughter?!?”….it feels like they are happy just to be with someone who reminds them of her.   And that is a gift to me.

Brian Gregg

I’m a lucky man to be born to this woman. Her sacrifices and hard work laid the foundation for not only me, but my children. She was a parent at 17 and raised three children, mostly by herself. We didn’t have much at all, but we had a ton of guidance and love. As I navigate parenting, I turn to the example she set and the things she taught. Sydney and Tyson just love her for being grandma, but they are going to hear stories about her for the rest of her life and some day they will understand her greatness and impact on the people they become.

Kate Lopez

That is my older sister Emily Pack and my mom is Cathy Young. “The first thing my mom gave me was her smile and then she taught my siblings and I how to use it well! She was a nurse who cured with medicine and her quick smile. She is my example of selflessness, strength and unconditional love. She is who I strive to be.”