When Mother Came To Tea

Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul

via Pinterest

I have mentioned previously that I received this precious little book as a gift and how I treasure it's simple short stories and valuable lessons. Today, I want to share this story:

When Mother Came To Tea

I had no idea she would be there. My apologies for her absence had been well-rehearsed. When my high school home economics teacher accounted that we would be having a formal mother-daughter tea, I felt certain I would not be serving my mother at this special event. 

So I will never forget walking into the gaily decorated gym - and there she was! As i looked at her, sitting calmly and smiling, I imagined all the arrangements this remarkable woman must have had  to make to be able to be with me for that one hour. 

Who was looking after Granny? She was bedridden following a stroke, and Mom had to do everything for her.

My three little sisters would be home from school before Mom got there. Who would greet them and look at their papers? 

How did she get here? We didn't own a car, and she could;t afford a taxi. It was a long walk to get the bus, plus at least five more blocks to the school.

And the pretty dress she was wearing red with tiny white flowers, was just right for the tea. It brought out the silver beginning to show in her dark hair. There was no money for extra clothes, and i knew she had gone into debt again at our coal company store to have it.

I was so proud! I served her tea with a happy, thankful heart. and introduced her boldly to the group when our turn came. I sat with my mother that day, just like the rest of the class, and that was very important to me. The look of love in her eyes told me she understood.

I have never forgotten. One of the promises i made to myself and to my children, as young mothers make promises, was that I would always be there for them. That promise is difficult to keep in today's busy world. But I have an example before me that puts any lame excuses to rest. 

I just recall again when Mother came to tea.

 - Margie M. Cohen - 

And cue the tears.

This story is even closer to my heart as my Mom had to work 9-5 and I had to attend after care or be at home alone. I understood then that my Mom had to work and couldn't always be with me but it didn't make it any easier… I also made this promise, to always be there for my children, as best as I possibly could.

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