Unconditional Lovers

I just watched Al Jolson in The Jazz Singer. It’s the first time I’ve seen it and I found it quite amazing, both for its historical background and the story line. First of all it was not quite as schmaltzy as I thought it would be, although by today’s standards, it was certainly a little over the top, but it was still a touching story as well as the first real full length movie that had bits and pieces of synchronized dialogue.

That final scene where Jolson is singing his famous “Mammy,” to his movie mother and she is in absolute ecstasy reminded me of what kind of people we mothers really are. When it comes right down to it, most of us adore our children no matter what they do and when they do something wonderful we are blown away.

I remember the first time my son sang his little heart out in front of a packed theatre. He had just turned seven years old and when he finished, all three hundred and fifty people stood up applauding. Me? I just sat there in tears wishing I could hear him sing again and again, and I did. And the truth is, each time was the same for me. I never heard him sing, or play an instrument, or speak without believing he was the most talented and beautiful person in the entire world. I have yet to see him in court trying a case, but I am sure I will feel the same way then. He is my son.

Another truth? I felt the same way with each of my children whenever it was their moment to shine. It’s what mothers do.

We are the unconditional lovers that every person deserves and most only find in a doting parent.