Lessons from our moms

Dear Friend,

People often ask me about my keys to success. I always tell them that my sister Sheila and I picked the right parents! My mom taught my sister and I so much. She wanted to make sure we understood the difference between right and wrong so that we’d be inclined to do what was right. She taught us the Golden Rule. She wanted us to be able to step into other people’s shoes.

Moms often teach us our first lessons before they send us off into the world. But, today, on this Mother’s Day in 2020, our world looks very different. And moms are being asked to do even more than usual! As we all navigate life during coronavirus, moms are often having to also fill the role of teacher, entertainer and so much more. Single mothers have an even greater burden placed on them at the moment. Soon-to-be mothers are understandably anxious. And grandmothers are missing their grandkids and wondering when they can see and hug them again.

I know that moms across Delaware and around the country are going above and beyond these days. And I also know you may be tired, you may be scared, and, like so many of us, you may be wondering when all of this will end. And I know that many of you are pushing your own fears aside and putting on a brave face for your children while also trying to balance so many other responsibilities. To all the moms out there and all the strong women who serve as role models to so many: thank you for the example you are setting and thanks for giving so many others the strength and support to get through these tough times.

We know that moms are superheroes, but, don’t forget, even moms need a helping hand sometimes. If you do, please know that you are not alone. If you are feeling like you need to talk to someone, help is out there. Delawareans can dial 2-1-1 or go to www.HelpIsHereDE.com and make the first step in connecting with a trained health care provider.

Today, Martha and I are sending our best wishes to all the moms and mother figures in Delaware and beyond. I believe that it’s the lessons that many of us originally learned from our moms that will help us get through this difficult time – to use some common sense and to treat other people the way we would want to be treated. What’s one lesson that your mom taught you that we should all keep in mind these days? Share it with me on Facebook or Twitter!

Wishing a happy Mother’s Day to all!

God Bless,

Tom Carper