Many strong women have been before me in my family. Some of their strengths included business sense, survival skills, persistence, longevity, and a “work ethic.” None of them had a lot of education, grandmother had a 3rd grade education, mother had a 10th grade education, nor did they pursue anything for intellectual achievement; they were always learning: ceramics, art repetition, a new recipe. They were successful in being individuals with a strong attachment to family. Each in their way loved their families. I was considered the “odd” one. The one who did not want to pursue business and who did not choose to work for money. I chose the reading route, the writing route, the questioning route. Though I often felt they never understood why I was so unlike them, they loved me and were excited to see me whenever we got together. In her later years my mother began to introduce me as “Dr.” to her friends and acquaintances. Embarrassing for me, but she intended it as a point of pride.

My mother’s family came from Ireland. Each visit I make there, I see people who look like me (I had red hair growing up) with freckles. This summer I hope to meet many women in Ireland with whom I can connect and see the roots of the women who came before me and to get a glimpse of those who may follow. Today is the day to remember our mothers.I remember mine.