It hangs on my bathroom wall, a constant source of inspiration. Those words, beginning with “From the Desk of Doris Drew,” have deeply influenced me.
Let me tell you, that desk sat tucked away in a corner of our basement while my mom, unemployed at the time, relentlessly pursued job opportunities. Despite the challenges, she persisted, as she would often say. Her name was Doris, and her influence on me remains profound.
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To be honest, the words may not have originated from her; she had a knack for repurposing others’ wisdom. Nevertheless, the letter from the Desk of Doris Drew holds immense significance for me.
The notion of living each day to the fullest resonates deeply with me. Amidst the hustle of work, school, childcare, and other responsibilities, that message remains ever-present. Each day truly is a gift, and seizing moments to “BE” can be transformative, bringing joy to the soul.
I particularly cherish the advice about embracing individuality and pursuing one’s own path, despite the criticisms that may arise. Through life’s journey, we each carry our unique stories, and it’s essential not to judge others. My mom’s letter serves as a reminder of the value in authenticity.
One line from the letter echoes in my mind: “When faced with a decision, make it wisely—then let it go. The moment of absolute certainty never arrives.” My mom’s wisdom rings true; dwelling on decisions can consume us. She taught me to make choices based on the best information available and to move forward without unnecessary worry, as worrying steals joy and often revolves around imagined scenarios.
It’s been eight years since Doris passed, and her absence is deeply felt. I miss her laughter, her vitality, her passion for music, and her guidance. If you’re experiencing a “Motherless Mother’s Day,” you likely understand. Instead of dwelling in sadness, I choose to celebrate her memory, partly by sharing her letter with all of you.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Karen
On a lighter note, the photo at the top always brings a smile to my face and encapsulates my mom perfectly. It was taken during a family trip to South Dakota, where she posed in a dress and high heels next to our, in my opinion at the time, embarrassing station wagon.
I used to question why she dressed up for such occasions, to which she’d simply reply that it made her happy and she embraced who she was, regardless of others’ opinions. Back then, I’d roll my eyes, but now I cherish the lesson she imparted.