The Value of a Godly Example, A Tribute to Mothers

The Value of a Godly Example, A Tribute to Mothers

by Jeanette Whittaker

Most of us keep items which we consider valuable. Some have intrinsic value, others remind us of a significant person or event. I’ve kept a cookbook that was handed down in our family. It’s original title speaks volumes, Portraits of Patriotism and Praise, Precious Promises, and Palatable Recipes. Printed in 1976, it features favorite recipes of the mothers of Kindergarten children in our Christian school.

I don’t honestly use any of the recipes from the book any more, but I still keep it because biographical sketches of strong, godly women are printed throughout the book, as well as poetry selections which I treasure.

Here is one of my favorites.

The Reading Mother
by
Strickland Gillilan

I had a Mother who read to me
Sagas of pirates who scoured the sea,
Cutlasses clenched in their yellow teeth,
“Blackbirds” stowed in the hold beneath.

I had a Mother who read me lays
Of ancient and gallant and golden days;
Stories of Marmion and Ivanhoe,
Which every boy has a right to know.

I had a Mother who read me tales
Of Gelert the hound of the hills of Wales,
True to his trust till his tragic death,
Faithfulness blent with his final breath.

I had a Mother who read me the things
That wholesome life to the boy heart brings–
Stories that stir with an upward touch,
Oh, that each mother of boys were such!

You may have tangible wealth untold;
Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.
Richer than I you can never be–
I had a Mother who read to me.

What is something that you keep and treasure? Do you have a favorite poem or cookbook? What makes it your favorite?