By Courtney Burkholder

Last week, a very dear friend of mine lost her mother. After a 15-year battle with lung cancer, this beautiful woman – wife, mother and grandmother - went to be with the Lord.

My heart did not hurt for her; it rejoiced in her freedom from pain and medication and endless doctor’s appointments.

It rejoiced in the joy of her eternal life in Heaven.

But it aches today for the family she left behind. It aches for my dear friend who lost her mother, her best friend, her confidante and advisor. I said to myself over and over this past week, “I don’t know what I would do without my mother. I don’t know how to prepare.

No matter what our age, the influence that a mother has on her children is immeasurable, and the bond is strong. “Mother” is a constant in an ever-changing world.

Mother is a shoulder to cry on, an ear to bend, a cheerleader, a voice of reason, and an inspiration. Mother is your number one fan! Mother also reminds you when you stray from the straight and narrow. She never forgets to pray for you. She tells you when your skirt is too tight, your hair is too blonde, and when you’ve missed three weeks of church in a row.

Mother encourages you to be your best. Her expectations may seem high, but you always strive to meet them because you know she wants only the best for you. Mother drives you crazy with her constant phone calls and all of her planning! Mother loves unconditionally and there is nothing she wouldn’t do for you. Mother is always there for you …until she’s not.

The death of a parent, a mother, is a reality that we all accept in theory. But in actuality, is there really a way to prepare for that loss?

I looked to my friend to answer this question, and determined that, yes, I think there is. We prepare by enjoying and appreciating every minute we have on this earth with our mother. We learn from her, emulate her, and strive to retain all that she has taught us. We take her strengths and make them our own. We take her weaknesses and try to do better. We think of her as we make daily decisions, and we honor her when we raise our children in a way that would make her proud. Most importantly, we remember her.

These are the things I have learned from my friend.

Moms, every day is an opportunity to build memories with your children. Our time on Earth is fleeting and unpredictable so use it wisely. If you are blessed enough to still have your mother, take time to remember her today. Appreciate and enjoy the time you have together and keep building those memories. They will last a lifetime.

In memory of Carol Glasscock Kopplow …