My commitment to a diet vanishes at the mention of Mother’s Day. Creamy Chocolate and other goodies are often tucked inside colorful wrapping paper for me on this special day.

Though this holiday is often expressed with flowers and candy, sadly, neither lasts very long.

Years ago, I was blessed with a precious gift that still ripples gratitude within me—not from my by children but by my own Mom.

At thirty-one, my sudden blindness had darkened my world in every way. My parents expressed their deep concern, but I kept my anguish from them, wanting to avoid intensifying the pain I knew they felt for me.

Then one day, my mom sat next to me, held my hands in hers and said, “What would you say about your father and me moving in with you? I can help you with the boys.”

I sighed with hesitation. Although my three small sons would be delighted with the idea, I wasn’t sure how my husband would react. But when my mom’s tender words continued, I knew this kind gesture on her part was an important way to show her love for me. My husband and I discussed the possibility, and he agreed with enthusiasm.

The transition for them had to be difficult, which included giving up their spacious condominium. And while she and my father would be living in tight quarters in our home, I knew their love could fill a football field and they’d be able to overcome any inconveniences. We began the adjustment period, stressful at times, but my mom’s delicate demeanor and caring nature made it easier for all of us to re-establish our roles.

Mom could have chosen to show her love and support for me in many ways. But looking back, the kind gesture she chose renewed my hope and fuelled my desire to move forward. The fact that I knew someone loved me enough to sacrifice for me gave me a new perception of my blindness.

Years later, with my mom’s support, my life has been filled with success, both personal and professional. Her unselfish giving as she demonstrated kindness wrapped in love has enriched my life. She taught me that the most important thing wasn’t being able to see physically, but to be able to see beyond our own comfort to help those who need us most.

She provides much more than physical assistance with the household chores by showing me the power of love that brightens any darkness. Like a priceless treasure, I have tucked it away in my heart laced with golden strings of gratitude.

Each Mother’s Day is a reminder for me to do the same–pass on to my children the gift of lasting love.

Janet Perez Eckles http://www.janetperezeckles.com/

Janet Perez Eckles is an inspirational speaker, writer and the author of Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow—a true story of triumph, victory and success. Www.janeckles.com