Firm Foundation, My First Example of Service

“ When you learn TEACH. When you get GIVE!” ~ Maya Angelou
Mentorship has been a major part of my character development. My primary mentor in service work is my mother, Freddie Lee Smith. The primary example of her care, and concern to help other was presented in her willingness to be my parent; she is my step mother by law but my actual mother by love. She married my father during the eve of my 9th birthday. She raised me as her own, and even fulfilled the obligation of both parents at times when my father fell short. Faith, humility and gratitude are the leading attributes of her character. She shared and shaped me by the strength of these attributes. Now at a blessed age of 102 years old and somewhat a frame of her former self, her contributions toward the woman that I’ve become remain vibrant, strong and timeless.
Faith
Our family subscribes to the Christian Religion. I’ve seen my mother live the pages of instruction of our faith by her actions of love toward others. My mother never has professed to be a perfect person. She does proclaim the goodness of God in word and in deed. I’ve seen her literally help those who otherwise would be ignored, regardless of their struggle of apparent negligence. She would feed the hungry and distribute clothing to those in need. Our family did not have much however my mom shared what we had. Her faith was the catalyst for her actions.
Humility
When I was a child, I can remember my mom’s response to those who’d solicit her to join their rants of demeaning and down grading another person. Clear as a bell, I can recall my mom’s response “ They are people too!” This simple statement held the power to dismiss and affirm reality. No matter where a person is in life, they still deserve love and respect, we are no better just because our decisions at the moment may appear better. When serving others regardless of setting or circumstance, this example propels my compassion.

Gratitude
In our home ‘thank you’, ‘you’re welcome’, and saying prayers before bed and before each meal were a mainstay. I witnessed my mom get on her knees to pray , well into her 80’s. Living a grateful life is not predicated on lack of pain, or an abundance of material possessions , its literally realizing that breath is a gift. My mom’s actions were prompted by gratitude, even during her most challenging times. Though she isn’t physically able get around like she used to, she is still thanking the Lord for each day, and she reminds us of his goodness.