This week’s inspiration comes from the wise words of my mom, and three things she taught me as she lived the mantra that I still honor in my home: Bloom Where You Are Planted.

Mom embodied those words.

As a minister’s wife, she moved six times in twenty-five years. I never saw her struggle with the transitions; yet, she was there for me as I struggled with each one of mine. I went to elementary school in one city, middle school in another, attended high school in yet one more, and was a freshman in college during the last move.

Every time, Mom “bloomed” where she was planted. What did I learn from watching her?

Get involved. Mom found opportunities to plug in, learn, and contribute in all the orbits of our family life—home, church, school, neighborhood, and community. From Sunday School teacher, to Den Mother, to Grade Parent, and the “hostess with the mostest” for Garden Club, she knew the importance not just of participating, but engaging, no matter what her experience level. She wasn’t afraid to be a rookie or a leader, always willing to grow or give.

Friends I’ve known for nearly fifty years!

Nurture relationships. Friendships matter, especially in times of struggle or transition. Mom knew that and lived it. “To have a friend, you need to be a friend,” she often said. She kept a calendar by her kitchen chair with hearts and stars marking her friends’ and family’s birthdays, anniversaries, and other special days. Although she shunned the computer, she was a gifted and vigilant note writer. Mom cared for people in a real way, remembering their special days and rejoicing and crying with them as they moved through the celebrations and sorrows of their lives. She was a great listener.

Mom with me weeks after my paralysis.

Stay patient and receptive. This one is sometimes hard for me, but I still strive for it. Mom eased into new situations slowly, observantly. She was gracious, never demanding. She never rushed. In fact, she didn’t like for us to even use the term “hurry up.” Instead, she encouraged, “Take your time.” She didn’t mind waiting, always finding something to do in the meantime, whether crocheting, reading, or chatting with a stranger to make a new friend. She was steady, reassuring and positive presence especially during my adjustments to paralysis.

Why does patience matter? Philosopher Mark Nepo may say it best:

For the flower, it is fully open at each step of its blossoming. When we push ourselves to unfold faster or more deeply than is natural, we thwart ourselves. –Mark Nepo

What a comforting thought! When life lands us in unknown territory, we can still flourish in each stage of adjustment and growth. Once again, we’re encouraged to, “Trust the process.” And then, when the time is right, Anaïs Nin reminds us:

And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. –Anaïs Nin

And we bloom, right on time, where we are planted.

Thanks, Mom, for all you taught me. With each passing year, I cherish your wisdom even more.

Also, for those of you reading Morning Fuel, this is the May 11 entry (Mother’s Day!), so enjoy this expanded version—with some very special pictures!

And on we go. . .

P.S. Enjoyed a lively conversation with Brigitte Cutshall on her Real Things Living Podcast.

P.S.S. Check out this recent article by Lucinda Koza where I shared the journey of How Our Family Navigates Life With a Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder.