I was about to meet my brother’s wife for the first time and had asked Sam why he chose Vila as his bride. I’ve never forgotten the power of his answer.

“I want her thumbprint on my children.”

Wow! What an incredible vote of confidence in Vila’s character and values! Sam’s insight showed he understood a mother’s significance in the life of a child.

In a multitude of ways, a mother has the opportunity to shape her child. Attitudes, insights, perceptions, and beliefs are influenced by her ideals. Whether or not we are educated, environmentally ‘green’, artistic, living on limited resources, or community leaders, our choices and who we are makes a difference in those touched by our influence.

When my children were young, they liked to press their fingertips onto an inkpad and make prints on construction paper. Using a marker, they drew smiles and frowns, noses, eyes, and ears on the fingerprint faces. On rare occasions, (HA!) the thumbprints might even stray to a sibling’s hand or the table covering. Thumbprints showed up everywhere!

The thumbprint of motherhood is a privilege with eternal significance. I’m thankful to have our Lord to guide me.

I’d enjoy hearing where you turn for guidance as you mother.

And Sam…good choice.