Welcome to the fifth in a series of essays that explore topics intended to help us all experience a more mindful, present, and connected life. In honor of Mother’s Day on May 10, Eastmark Community Representative Ana Feyereisen shares 10 pearls of wisdom she learned from her mom.   

10 truths I learned from my mom
I was born and raised in Mexico by very traditional parents. I’m the second of five children. My mom stayed home to raise us while my dad worked on the farm. I’ve always been very close to my mom and she is my best friend and has been my best source of advice on all aspects and stages of my life. These are the core values that my mom taught me and that I’ve followed since I was a little girl.

Always be yourself. Sometimes people play roles in situations and do not reveal their true personality because they are trying to impress someone else or want to obtain something. But my mom always told me, “Be yourself. People will love you for it.”

Learn to dance. Even if you are not the most popular girl, you will always have fun at parties if you know how to dance.

Dedication + Sacrifice = Success. While I was working on my degree, a really good job opportunity came up for me.  I was a full time student and had a full time job, with very little time for fun. But with my mom’s love and unconditional support encouraging me to work hard, I succeeded in getting my degree and a promotion at work.

Actions speak louder than words. Take a close look at the way a man treats his mom; that will tell you what kind of a person he is and how he will treat you in the future.

Be an example. This is something my mom never said in words, but it goes along with the idea above. Both of my parents were examples to my siblings and me. You can’t teach your kids something in “words” that you are not showing in “actions.”

Learn to cook. My mom is a fantastic cook. She believes that if you know how to cook your husband will be always anxious and happy to come home to eat dinner with the family.

Love your siblings. Countless times my mom would tell us, “Love each other, support each other, and be there for each other. Friends come and go but you always will have each other.” My siblings and I follow this even today and despite the distance we know we are just a phone call away.

The Golden Rule. My mom embraced this in our home all the time. If we did something hurtful to someone, she would help us see how we might feel if we were in the other person’s shoes.

Be compassionate. Even during hard times, my mom shared what we had – no matter how much or how little – with others in need. What you share from the heart will come back to you tenfold. But always do it without expecting something in return.

Stay strong in your beliefs. Mom taught us to trust in God. Everything happens for a reason and is part of His plan for us.

What invaluable lessons did you learn from your mom?

Past essays in this series:

January:  Welcome to a Bright New Year
February:  Passion & Possibility
March:  Curiosity & Creativity
April:  Turn Your Passion into Action
May:  Words of Wisdom
June:  Always There
July:  Pass the Ketchup, Please
August:  The Moment of Truth
September:  Being an Adult is Overrated
October:  Why we Fall in Love with Autumn in Arizona
November:  Practicing Gratitude
December: ‘Tis the Season for Magic