My mother always says that when she looks in the mirror she sees her mother’s face staring back at her. I can say the same. It’s a comfort to me in my loneliest moments. Yet, my mother’s influence is more than skin deep.

She is the greatest influence on my work ethic, my ability to cope with chronic illness and my passion for creative writing. She’s showed me how to find joy and hope in the worst situations that life throws at you. And, she’s the driving force behind my interest in maintaining strong family ties and helping those who are less fortunate. No matter what she has been through, including now two bouts with Cancer, my mother finds a reason to sing, even if it’s quietly to herself.

One of my mother’s favorite songs is “If This World We’re Mine” by Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn. Today, on her birthday, I wish I could do more to make her life as enjoyable and comfortable as she’s made mine. Or, as the lyrics say,

“If this world were mine
I would place at your feet
All that I own
You’ve been so good to me”

Next week, she will be at my side again as I recover from two medical procedures. She’s living proof that a mother’s love knows no bounds.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

#amotherslove #happybirthday #spoonies #igg4 #autoimmunedisease #invisibleillness #chronicillness #chronicpain #disability #joythroughthepain