Dear Mum,
When I was a little girl you gave me the freedom to imagine and the space to make my own decisions. I could try anything and it would be okay if I failed because you were a soft place to land. You told me you loved me every day without fail. This gave me a rock solid foundation for everything I have achieved in my life. It’s how I became fearless.
You never said no.
When I was young I wanted to sing, dance, act, play piano, learn clarinet, try acrobatics, go in a bicycle race, attend toastmasters, audition for musicals and run the Rock Eisteddfod. You never said education must come first. You knew I was developing skills in teamwork, leadership, time management and public speaking. All the while growing my confidence to do well in and out of school.
You said it was up to me to practise.
If I failed (like the time I achieved straight Es for clarinet) it was my responsibility. You taught me to be responsible for my actions from a very young age. In saying that, I remember the time I forgot my tap dance on stage at an Eisteddfod. I don’t remember feeling too upset or embarrassed. It was just a mistake and you also told me it’s okay to make them. The world was going to go on turning.
I look back at all my extra-curricular activities and it pains me to remember you working until 2am to make the time and space for my desires. I never truly understood the personal and financial pressure this put you under until I was much older. These activities are a core part of how I developed and I can’t thank you enough for how hard you worked to make my dreams possible.
Work was always an integral part of our lives living in the pub. But, I like to think you made it a wee bit Mary Poppins.
“In every job that must be done. There is an element of fun. You find the fun and snap! The job’s a game.” You let me ‘help’ you set up the weddings. A highlight of the week. Mind you, I don’t ever think I could look at another sugar coated almond again. Thankfully that 80s wedding trend has passed.
You led by example with your work ethic.
As a child you let me sit in on function meetings. I learned the customer is always right, the importance of communication and how to motivate your staff to do their best. You also showed me that you didn’t have to hide your children. That it’s perfectly normal to have a career and young children.
You taught me how important family is.
No matter where you live in the world, you make time for family. Often demonstrated when you get together with your one, two or six of your siblings and a raucous time is had. I like to carry on this tradition with all the Aunties, Uncles, Cousins and now the next generation coming through. You always make time spent together special. Now my children are also two of your biggest fans and they love spending time with their Mamo. Although I am sure you are not happy with their ABBA repertoire.
Thanks for being a wonderful Mum and an amazing Mamo.
I want you to know how special you are to me and to my family. You deserve public accolades for all that you have helped me achieve in my life without ever wanting anything in return. Happy Mother’s Day. I love you.
Love Lanni xoxo
ABOU
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