Happy Birthday to my sister (and my mom)

Years ago, on her own birthday, my Mom presented me with the best gift of all – my sister, Penny. The first time I saw her, I remember thinking, “Is that what all the fuss is about? She doesn’t look like much fun.” Then they placed her in my arms, all pink and rosy and sweet-smelling, wrapped in her yellow kitty blanket. An indelible bond was forged at that moment. Even among sisters, I think our relationship is unique and special – all because of her. Mom and Penny share so much more than a birthday. Mom’s spirit of generosity, friendship, and compassion lives on in Penny. The following words were written by Penny while she kept vigil with Mom sixteen years ago. I share them now as a birthday tribute to both of them.
"While sitting with Mom during these last weeks, I tried to think of anything left unsaid in the past that I would want to say to her now. Then I remembered a time that was a low point in her married life – when she and Daddy had to leave the farm and the home where she had raised her children. This was very difficult for all of us. When everything they owned was packed in boxes and ready to be moved, it just didn’t look like much compared to their many years of hard work. Mom turned to me and remarked sadly, “I guess we weren’t very successful, were we.” This comment has always bothered me; so, as I kept my loving vigil, I came up with a reply:
   Mom, you found and married a man who cherishes you unconditionally. He still finds it hard to believe that such a beauty agreed to be his bride. The love you share inspires everyone around you. Let Me Call You Sweetheart is not only your song…it is your life—51 years of cuddling, dancing, and sharing… Is this not success?    Mom, we only recently learned that you did not have a pleasant childhood, yet you raised us girls in the most loving environment. We may not have had stylish clothes or fancy toys, but we were envied by other kids. Your support never faltered. Your love sustained us in good times and in bad times. We admire you, and in all honesty, we can call you our very best friend…Is this not success?    Then into your life came two hulking sons-in-law. They were a bit reluctant to fall in with all the family traditions you started and hold so dear. But they were eventually converted and will faithfully and happily continue every one of them. I remember the tradition that started when Don was dating Cindy. He would bring her home early so he would have time to play cards with you. Even now, when we come to your house, Don and Wayne can’t wait to get the cards out. Eventually Cindy and I crawl into our old bed to sleep while you and the boys gleefully play Shupskup into the wee hours of the morning…Is this not success? Well I guess that depends on your point of view. Cindy and I have sometimes wondered if Don and Wayne married us for ourselves or so they could play cards with our mother!    Has there ever been a Grandma more adored by her grandchildren? Or children more showered with affection from their Grandma? Because of your support, they discovered that you are a trusted friend. They confide in you and turn to you for advice. Even their friends turn to you just as our friends did. Our kids can always count on you to make them feel special and loved. Remember all the unique birthday parties? Matt, Sabrina, Billy, Katelyn, and Skye will always carry a part of you in their hearts…Is this not success?    Your fun-loving nature sparkles at dances, house parties, bridge parties and especially costume parties. However, as fun as it is to be with you, you have proven time and again that you are not just a fair-weather friend. In times of need, friends have found in you a loving heart, a sympathetic ear and a helping hand. Friends and relatives, young and old, often feel as close to you as to their own families…Is this not success?    Occasionally in this world of greed and indifference, a special soul will respond to God’s call to love…simply love. Mom, you are such a soul. Except for a rare – but legendary!-flash of temper, you live the beatitudes. I believe that when Jesus gathers you into His arms to welcome you to Heaven, He will whisper in your ear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Now, tell me, Mom…Isn’t that success?"