Daily Wisdom 05-10-2002 Daddy's Girl

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Daddy's Girl

Her life began with a disadvantage. Whether she received it at birth or in early childhood, no one remembersbut some say that because of a fall, she became physically and mentally handicapped. Her younger and older sisters, Martha and Joyce, were her source of encouragement as she coped with her disadvantage, helping her to learn how to walk and do lifes simple chores. Before she was 10 years of age, however, she was instrumental in saving her younger brother, Jack, from drowning. Perhaps it was because of this and her innocent joy, she became "daddy's girl" to father Turkstra.

He died just after she was married and because of the loss of this wonderful father, her marriage to a traveling vendor with 6th grade education, and alas, her young family of 5 children (a set of twins included) under the age of 5, she turned to Abba, her Heavenly Father, for guidance and care. She could not do it on her own.

She loved being young at heart and often, with the attraction of her lemon pies, many young people would come over and fill the house with laughter. This is what she enjoyed. How she coped with her oldest and only son, biking 30 miles alone when he was 12 or later, as a teenager, hitchhiking across thousands of miles each summer, I do not know. Yet, I am convinced she might have prayed for each mile I was on the road.

There are those that believe one should discover who they are, realizing their potential as they study and encounter nature and God. "Have faith in yourself," they would say. I am convinced that my mother would not have the capabilities to do this. Having only 3rd grade potential, not being able to read a book, unable to participate in regular conversation or share in a Bible Study, nor drive a bicycle or car, she would be at a disadvantage. I am proud to say that my mother is a woman of simple faith in God. I have said many times that if it were not because of her prayers for me, I would not be writing this, nor would I be here. She has taught me, as a man, to freely say words like, "I love you," and "I miss you."

On my mother's refrigerator is a picture of 3 sisters, over 80 years of age, sitting in a tub. Martha, Joyce, and my mom; continue to visit each other regularly, encouraging and sharing the good things God has given them.

My mother will turn 86 years on August 28, and she has said many times that she longs to be able to have God take her by the hand and lead her into Heaven's glory when her time comes. I know she is ready to meet her Creator and I also know God will give her full use of her new mind and body when she arrives Home.

However the capacity you are created, I would encourage you to serve God as best you can. You will be able to live of life of joy as my mother does. This can be a real tribute for Mother's Day; also doing what mom does best.

Two years ago this story won first prize at the Women of Faith Conference; in Buffalo, NY.