The Gospel According to Lyle

My Mom was one chastised by a friend of hers for doing me the great disservice of not “raising me up with God”.  Her response was I would be able to choose when I was an adult. So, I thought about her philosophy of life, how she raised me and if not knowing “God” was really a hindrance in my life.

She told me to love and care about people. She taught me people are people, despite age, race, sexual orientation, etc.. She is the most empathetic person I know. She can read just about anyone and know their character. She also has an uncanny ability to call me just when I am about the break down, often telling me she, “just had a feeling” she needed to call. She showed me how to take care of my own children, home and pets. I watched her grow-up with me. I watched her stay strong through the worst circumstances. I’ve watched her inspire greatness in other people. I have always been in awe.

I remember she used to come out and play with all the kids in the neighborhood. She once caught a garter snake and held it for all of us to touch. She is the bravest woman EVER! In the third grade, the class bully (Amber) made me cry. She told me if Amber didn’t want to be my friend, it was her loss, which made sense to me because I had the Barbie Townhouse with working elevator. Who wouldn’t want to be my friend with assets like that in my room?! I was afraid of monsters in my closest. She calmly explained that Grover was a monster, so how bad could monsters be? She never missed an AWFUL band or choir concert and was secretly relived when I pursued sports (something I was actually good at) instead of singing or playing an instrument. She never missed a softball game. Her whistled could be heard for miles! She was there through my first broken heart and told me if he didn’t want to be with me, it was his loss. I still had the Barbie Townhouse, but didn’t think that would persuade him. She was right though, it was his loss!

I think she is disappointed I don’t believe in a higher power. But…the thing is: I do! I believe in her and everything she taught me. She has been my rock, my strength, my greatest cheerleader, my most constructive critic and ALWAYS there. …for real.…..in the flesh. So, no, I don’t believe in a fictional “God”. I believe in people. I believe in her. That doesn’t take any faith at all.

I know she is scared for me. In a week I will be going under for surgery. That’s scary for a Mom. But, please, DON’T pray for me! Send thoughts to Lyle. She needs them more than me J