To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

A girl should ALWAYS listen to her mother.

Mothers ALWAYS know best. I am serious, it's just plain logical and intelligent thinking to admit that. They birthed you. They HAVE to love you. They just do. They want your happiness! (Because as your parent, your unhappiness is both terrifyingly sad to them... and kind of a burden too, right?!?) I mean, even a mother doesn't want to hear about you making the same ridiculous decisions ad nauseam.

Trust me, it's better for everyone involved to just heed to the counsel of your mother. Of this one thing, I am sure!

Fortunately/Unfortunately for me, my mother trusts my judgment and decisions so fully that she often just tells me that I'll know what to do, and I'll do what's best for me, and that she believes in me... yada yada yada.

And, the truth is that I appreciate that confidence and advice more than I could ever express in words.

But, I was really quite grateful that Jan (my mom) also gave me some legitimate and concrete advice the other day.

"Als, I am so proud of you. You are so incredibly emotionally mature. I think you should go buy yourself a present."

Since she's my mom, she has to say the first sentence. And, the second sentence is the 'feel good about yourself' sentence. But, the last one! That's the one that makes my mom MY mom! And, I LOVE my mom. She is truly one of my best friends.

Mother dearest, I will have you know that last night I stimulated South Coast Plaza in a way that only you would be proud of... and maybe Obama... maybe.

3 comments:

mama mia said...

Let me be the first to comment . . .

mama mia said...

Retail therapy is only lasting and meaningful when you've accomplished a difficult and noble thing. If it's meant to life your spirits when you're depressed (minus any effort on your part), it's only fleeting gratification, and in the end, you'll still feel depressed. But a gift you give yourself after successfully meeting a life challenge becomes a token of your accomplishment in raising your "character bar" --- kind of like a Boy Scout merit badge! (Personally, I try not to buy trendy things that won't pass the test of time; I prefer jewelry!). And, one more piece of motherly advice: never to into debt for your "merit badge"; just spend money on yourself for a change instead of spending it on friends and family, because clearly, you deserve the commendation!

Ali B. said...

Mommy! I love you! But, trust me, I have never had any problem buying things for myself! I am actually really really good at it! ;)

And, dad would kick my trash if I went into debt for much of anything!

You both taught me really well!