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Norma Donovan

A Daughter’s Tribute

“The loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the heart of a mother.”

St. Therese of Lisieux

Today is my mom’s eighty-fifth birthday and in honor of that, this post is a tribute to my beloved and beautiful momma, Lilly Miley. My nephew’s wife, Kay, organized a wonderful birthday celebration in Prescott, Arizona, centered around the theme of “masterpiece.” A masterpiece is “a work of outstanding artistry, skill, or workmanship.” God has certainly made a masterpiece in Mom through eighty-five years of trials and triumphs. My mom is not only a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, but as an artist, she also creates oil masterpieces.

Lilly Bashkingy was born in Patterson, New Jersey, in the middle of what became a family of nine children. Her dad died when she was nine and since her mom was from Syria and illiterate, times were rough financially growing up. But that never stopped her from having a positive outlook on life and pursuing her dreams of nursing. She became the only one in her family to attain a college degree.

Overcomer, is one of many words, to describe my mom. In times of adversity she always pulls herself back up. She perseveres, works hard, loves well, and generously gives of herself in service to others.

Her children are her top priority. I remember when I was pregnant with our first born and came down with the flu six days before my due date, Mom dropped everything, packed a bag, and drove two hours to take care of her “baby.”

My mom is also brave. Over twenty-five years ago, she had to face being abandoned and divorced by my dad and she courageously survived aortic valve surgery six years ago. Her faith in God has sustained her. Her grandchildren call her spunky because of her energy and enthusiasm for life.

Children stand on top of their parents shoulders and reach beyond where their parents are able to go. I am grateful for my mom’s legacy of attributes and the example she’s given me to follow. Proverbs 31:28-29 says, “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.'” I bless my mom today and am so grateful for the masterpiece God created in her. I love you, Mom.

“No man is poor who has had a godly mother.” 

Abraham Lincoln

Relevant Reflections:

  1. If your mom is still alive, write her a note of tribute.

  2. How have you stood upon your mom’s shoulders and gone beyond where she’s been?

  3. What kind of legacy are you leaving your children?

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