Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Rom 5:3-4).

Last September, my mom fell and broke her kneecap. With the subsequent surgery and recovery, she was off work for about six months. What seemed like a tragedy had a silver lining: I stayed with my parents during those months, and I spent more time with them than I normally would have. And even though I wish my mom hadn’t gotten hurt, I wouldn’t trade the time with her for anything, especially since the lockdown has kept us apart for the last couple of months.

My mom is one of the strongest people I know. Instead of complaining about her knee, she simply went to work to get better. She attended physical therapy faithfully and followed her doctor’s orders. Over time, she was able to walk again without help from me or my dad, a walker, or a cane. It was a frustrating experience to be sure, but it came with a lesson in perseverance.

My mom faces most things in life the same way. When someone mentioned her good attitude toward her difficult situation, she said, “Well, there’s no use in complaining. It doesn’t change anything.” That’s a perspective I would do well to emulate—always look for the positive whenever possible.

While helping my mom recover from her broken kneecap, I hope I was able to return some of the support she has given me throughout the years. We studied the Bible, prayed together, and encouraged each other.

My mom has been there for me from the beginning, loving me, nurturing me, and setting a godly example for me to follow. I regularly seek her advice when faced with a difficult situation and bounce ideas off her when I’m not sure what direction to take. Words can’t express how thankful I am to the Lord for allowing me to have her in my life.

Dear Jesus, thank you for my mom and her strength. Show me how to support her in the way she has always supported and encouraged me. Amen.