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Women make a difference, at home and in the community

"We were among you, like a mother caring for her children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."

- 1 Thessalonians 2:7 (NIV)

Years ago, as Mother's Day approached, a friend shared with me her dream for motherhood.

My emotions were stirred with compassion as my friend explained that she had miscarried a few years before I met her. Due to complications with the pregnancy, she was unable to conceive any more children.

I admired her as I watched her serve the Lord with the same love and tenderness that a mother shows her child. I could hear the warmth and compassion in her voice each time she gave gentle encouragement. She would readily lend an ear to listen the same way a mother makes herself available to listen to the needs of a child.

Some women's hearts have been stirred by a call other than motherhood. Others have desired motherhood, but have had their lives molded and shaped in another direction due to circumstances.

The one thing all women have in common is the spirit to serve others with the same loving traits that a mother uses to care for her child.

The apostle Paul used the example of a mother caring for her child to express how the gentleness of Christ's love shows through a loving heart.

We have all seen the selfless love that pours from a woman who loves her child with all her heart. Caring mothers and model servants love and serve the world with the same gentle spirit, selflessness, and wisdom of our model servant, Jesus Christ.

As a caring mother hands out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to feed her household, a model servant stretches forth her hands to feed the homeless, poor and needy.

While one is managing the cries of a hectic household, the other is managing the cries of a hectic and busy world. Each one occupies her space with the same heart for service.

As women, to be an influence to our families or sphere that surrounds us, is a privilege and honor - fulfilling our mission with love and care is instrumental in our making a difference.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, inspirational speaker, life coach and nurse. Annettee will be speaking on "Building Skills to Bring Success" from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Panera Bread in Gurnee. She is presenting "Writing and Publishing" from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, May 29, at the same place. Registration is suggested due to limited space, but not required. She can be contacted at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413. She is available for speaking to church and civic groups.

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