For more than a hundred years, America has celebrated Mother’s Day. This special day has been attributed to family members who wanted to honor their mothers and encourage others to do so. By recognizing mothers’ contributions to their respective families and what motherhood means to our society, we may only begin to appreciate our human existence fully. In tribute to my mother, I invite you to reflect upon the impact that yours has had on you as I indulge in reflecting on the immeasurable impact of my own.
Growing up without the conveniences we now take for granted, such as cell phones, microwaves, GPS, and countless other technologies, shaped my childhood in ways I am deeply grateful for. Life moved at a different pace then, and time was spent more intentionally, often devoted to learning, observing, and connecting with others. While I fully embrace and advocate for the incredible advances technology has brought to our society, I cannot help but feel that today's children and future generations may miss out on some invaluable lessons.
Reflecting on my upbringing, I treasure most the education I received simply by sitting still and talking with my mother. I recall many days when we spent time in simple yet robust conversations about such a wide array of topics, ranging from world events to family values to our duty and obligation to our fellow mankind. I learned about empathy, patience, open-mindedness, conviction, compassion, sincerity, honesty, trust, conflict resolution, the value of giving your best in all you do, and never quitting something you’ve started.
Although we lost her more than twenty years ago, I can still hear her laughter, see her smile, and even smell her sweet aroma. The only explanation I can make of this is that it was embedded in my memory banks during those childhood talks, which continued well into my young adulthood before she passed. Beyond the obvious connection of immense love she shared with me and my siblings, I reflect on the actual time she committed to each of us.
Beginning at age twenty, she had four children in eight years, so she didn’t leave much time for herself. She had such a strong work ethic, stemming from her desire to contribute to our family by serving as my father’s equal in parental contributions. They both worked to ensure we were fed, clothed, and prepared for school each day. To take it a step further, my mother was also my Sunday school teacher. She didn’t take a day off from being the best mother she could possibly be.
I have often credited my teachers and coaches for lighting a flame within me to pursue this wonderful career in education and make a difference in a child's life, much in the same manner that they impacted me. However, without the time that my mother committed to developing my fundamental academic, social, and emotional health during my childhood, I would not be the man I am today. So, Mom…. thank you for emphasizing how important my education would become, and for your love and for your time!
To all mothers everywhere, Happy Mother’s Day!
Dr. Randal O’Brien
Superintendent of Schools