By Chanel Davis
Growing up with a single mother and my two older sisters, I was always surrounded by strong femininity. Having three role models close to me to look up to, I always strived to be just as great.
My mother raised us all by herself. Making sure we never lacked anything. She was the provider and the protector. Of course, while you are younger, you tend to not notice the sacrifices nor appreciate all a parent does to provide while keeping a smile on their face. She was and still is resilient, graceful, beautiful (my mama fine y’all), and loving! I thank her for my glowing smile that I get to share with others to brighten their day and mood.
The older I became; I was able to put a lot of appreciation into this woman. I now understand the strategy of her rules and upbringing. She was strict but loving.
The bible says in Proverbs 12:24, “Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.”
NLT
I looked upon her saying no back then as hindering me from fun or being labeled as mean. But now, I know she was intentional with her reasons as to why we were not allowed to do certain things. She was not only looking out for our best interest, but she was being intentional in protecting each of us. She ALWAYS refused to let us attend sleepovers, but she did it with reason. To ensure her children were always safe. She did not allow us to attend parties, we did anyway haha, but her reason was to keep us away from provisions seen and unseen. Dangers seen and unseen as well.
She always pushed each of us to be the very best at everything we committed to. She pushed us academically and held us all to a high standard. Now each of her children holds a degree. We always hold ourselves to that same standard today in whatever we pursue.
I can say she still is the glue and reason why my sisters and I have such a tight bond and sisterhood. She puts emphasis on us always having each other’s backs and being able to be depend on one another. Something I very much appreciate as I know loyalty and the importance of being surrounded by like-minded individuals.
She was always there to tell us the truth. To be the first to tell us things we did not understand nor believe. Not to be a damper, but to better prepare us to deal with those hard situations. It seemed like a hard thing at the time growing up being under a strict parent, but I appreciate all the lessons.
I am so strong on my faith now due to my mother. Watching her pray throughout the years and lean on God and not her own understanding, really embedded in me to seek Christ in all I do. During difficult times and even when making tough decisions.
I most importantly, thank God for making her my mother. I appreciate every prayer, every joke, every hug, and every moment I get to spend with her. And she is just talented beyond measure! I like to think I get my creative side from her. Thanks, lady!
She is still my biggest role model and I hope to one day be half as great as she is. She is the definition of strong in my eyes. I know many may not still have their mother on this earth, but I hope everyone has a mother figure or female in their life who is a great example and display of how one should be nurtured.
Thank you, mommy, for all that you do and have done. I will continue to give you your flowers and accolades while we are still gifted to have your presence here with us.
I love you!
-Nel
Chanel Davis is a Contributing Writer for the Pedestal Project, LLC. Chanel is the creator and operator of the Diary Of A Chocolate Girl podcast aiming to connect with chocolate girls all over through personal experiences and opinions with mild humor and a spiritual flare. Be sure to connect on IG and Facebook @DiaryofaChocolateGir
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