My mother, Vivian Dauer Collard Daugherty, has been an amazing example of unconditional love in my life. Of all things, when I think of my mom, her love has been expressed as support, encouragement, and interest. When I skyped with her this morning, she wanted to see how the newly painted and decorated office looked. She was interested in every detail. That’s just like her. She is caring and interested. 


When I was a teenager, I was in a girls’ organization. In order for me to take a position of leadership, a parent had to join the parents leadership team. My mom doesn’t enjoy being in charge of anything. She is a behind the scenes kind of person. Even though involvement in an organization is not her cup of tea, she took a responsibility on the parent team so that I could pursue my dream. That’s just like her. She is willing to sacrifice.


Another example she has been to me is her growth and curiosity about life. When I was an older teen and continuing on for years, my mom was always taking some kind of class. I can remember her taking an archaeology class. Another time she took decorating. Only a few years ago she took the challenge and purchased a computer. Even in her eighties, she is willing to learn new things and stay connected with her family. That’s just like her. She wants to learn and grow.


She also exemplifies strength to me. I know she doesn’t think of herself this way, but she is strong. She would say her strength is from God and that is true. In her weakness she seeks the Lord and depends upon Him. She has gone through many hard things in her life. She was orphaned by age 10 and raised by her unmarried aunt. My dad died suddenly at age 50. In time, she remarried and supported Bud through prostate cancer until his death. Now she is adjusting into an independent living residence with courage and grace. That’s just like her. She is strong in the Lord.

Mom, I love you and admire you. Thank you for always being there for me and all of us. I’m so proud to call you my mother. Happy Mother’s Day!