Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 12. I am truly glad we have a day to celebrate mothers. They deserve honor and recognition for what they joyfully give and sacrifice for their children.
But there is another side to Mother’s Day, it is also a painful day for many. Many of our mothers have passed away and all we have are memories. I remember one day while we were working here in town Casey’s dad, Doyle Carpenter told me he wishes he could talk to his mama one more time. My mother Vallie Strachan who is 90 and the oldest living member of North Carrollton Baptist Church can’t walk anymore but it is a blessing- her long and productive life. I’m thankful for the 50 years I have had her with me.
For so many, it would be so nice to call their mom or to visit her and thank her personally for all she did while growing up and throughout their lives. Then, there is also the pain of some women who wanted to be mothers, but it never worked out for one reason or another. Mother’s Day can be a painful reminder that a dream they had was never fulfilled.
Back to the memories, that is something that a person will always have, and the older you get the more memories are made. Through all those years growing up, going to school, college, marriage, and a career a mother’s love is a solid foundation throughout life. I, like so many, have many great memories with my mom throughout my life. From the time I was twenty years old in my first campaign thirty years ago my mother would ride with me when I was going door-to-door campaigning. That support and love from a mother is a lifetime bond and is appreciated. As we get closer to Mother’s Day 2025 this Sunday may we all cherish the time we had together with our mothers and always carry the memories with us.
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12
Ken Strachan serves as the mayor of North Carrollton, is a member of the Mississippi Municipal League board of directors, and serves on the MML education committee.
