Dear Annie: Showing my mom how much she helped others was a blessing

Dear Annie: My mom was always focused on helping others and would gladly give whatever she had if she felt someone else would benefit.

She had serious health challenges as well. In late November a few years ago, we found out she needed surgery which was scheduled for right after Christmas. I wanted to give her something extra special for Christmas. I contacted family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers and the groups where she volunteered and asked them to tell me about the difference my mom made in their lives. I received phone calls, letters, emails and cards with wonderful stories full of love and gratitude about my mom.

For my mom, it was never about what she had or what she could get, but always about what she could give. I placed everything I received in a three-ring binder.

The night before her surgery, I read some of the stories with her. She smiled as I read, and we both cried. Mom got through the surgery and died a few years later. When my sisters and I were going through everything, we found the book. They gave it to me. I read it often. I am sharing this story with you hoping it will encourage others to share how someone has made a difference in their life before they leave this earth. — Loving and Grateful Daughter

Dear Loving: I absolutely love this idea. The holidays have come and gone, but all year long we have the opportunity to let loved ones know how special they are to us and how important they are to their communities. We need not wait until they’re gone to express our gratitude for knowing them. Thank you for this reminder.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].