Character - pass it on!

February's blogging theme is "Character" (see sidebar button) and I can't think of character without thinking of my mom. She passed away in January 2010, at age 85. The pictures above show one of the things I have to remind me of her: a medal she won in 1942, for excellence in Grade 12 Latin. She had to work hard to succeed in school, so this medal symbolizes her determination and ... well, her character.

My mom was tiny -- no more than 4'10" and less than 100 lbs -- but she was the kind of person who stood out. The best thing about her was the way she made people feel special. She always told us to be kind to others. Well, all parents say that, don't they? But what made my mom unique is that she practiced what she preached. I saw her reach out to people who were lonely or awkward or on the sidelines, so when she told me to do the same, I knew how. Not only that, but I saw firsthand how effective such kindness could be. Over the years I saw people blossom and become less awkward, more lovely, as she gave them attention and made them feel important. After she died I received letters from many people, telling me about how she had touched their lives by her caring and kindness at a time when they needed it most.

I admit that I haven't always followed her example, but I try. And what is really wonderful is that I see my sons trying, too. I got kind of teary-eyed when I read a comment from my 12 year old's gym teacher about how Victor (named after my mom) has made the effort to reach out to a boy who is a bit of an outcast. His grandma Vicki would be proud!