Over at Eva’s

On By Lady GIn Interpersonal/Intrapersonal Relationships
mama holding tack
Mama, Tack and Me

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.  Matthew 5:14-16 New Living Translation (NLT)

One thing I can say with certainty is that mama’s light was bright enough for all who encountered her to see.  In that way, she was a living example of God’s love.

If you are a regular reader of my blog then you already know mama.  Sometimes she is referred to directly.  Other times, she quietly lingers between the lines.  Either way, she is always present in just about every post that I write.

Oh, just so you know, mama’s given name was Eva.  She passed away a few years ago so in recognition of Mother’s Day, I’d like to tell you a little more about her.

Ok, let me start by saying that mama was something of a paradox.  In fact she was the personification of the adage “You should never judge a book by the cover.” At first glance she often appeared to be aloof and unengaged.  However, a closer look would have revealed that she was actually quite warm and kindhearted.  In any case, people were automatically drawn to her.  Suffice it to say, there was something disarming about her demeanor that encouraged folks to lean in closer.

Bearing this in mind, I have come to appreciate the fact that mama was a universal ‘mother’ whose influence extended well beyond the three children that she birthed. In essence she advised, taught, consoled, cared for, comforted and united a motley crew of followers. While some of them started out as strangers, most of them ended up as family.

Yes friends, when Eva walked this Earth she maintained a countless number of devotees and each of them sought refuge at her place whenever they needed to.

So if you were looking for the broke young railroad worker who was waiting for his first paycheck, you would have found him over at Eva’s having a good hot meal.

If you were looking for the German lady who felt homesick and isolated, you would have found her over at Eva’s making a connection.

If you were looking for the scared latch key kid, you would have found her over at Eva’s feeling more secure.

If you were looking for the young gay man who felt rejected, you would have found him over at Eva’s experiencing acceptance.

Clearly Ms. Eva set a very high standard.  At her place, she provided much needed light to those who had been navigating in darkness.

Earlier this year I decided to find a broader way in which to pick up where she dropped off; so I started this blog.

Ultimately, I’d like to see this blog become a virtual version of Ms. Eva’s place.  Basically, I envision a digital sanctuary for all who are seeking light.

Yes, I recognize that this is a tall order but I think mama would approve ❤ 🙂

 

 

 

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31 thoughts on “Over at Eva’s”

  1. This is a stunning tribute to an amazing woman. G, now I know why you and I are drawn to each other, and have similar attitudes. Our moms were like two peas in the proverbial pod!! (For more on mine, do a search for Ida on my blog, whenever you have a chance.) HOW LUCKY WE WERE!! And ARE, because we’re still cradled in the cocoon of their love, so so lucky we are to carry that love with us wherever we go. Eva was a giver. Ida, my mom, as well. Would that everyone could be like that. We’re blessed for having known them.
    (And, just as an aside, now I see where you get your gorgeous looks from. Your dad looks cute too – I saw in the other pic. 😉 )

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  2. Lady G, what an amazing tribute to your mom. She sounds like a wonderful mother and friend to many others. I get this especially from the comments others have left. I understand how you must miss her. Who wouldn’t miss someone who had time for you, time to listen, time to care, time to share. Who cares if she at first seemed a little aloof? All the more reason to get to know her. I sometimes find people who are not “open books” are the most amazing people. Once you have opened that book, you don’t want to put it down!

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    1. Hello again Marie!
      Thank you so much for reading this post. It is so reassuring to know that others can appreciate my thoughts about my mother’s life.
      She really was something else.
      I think that you’re on to something with your statement about people who are not an “open book.” I think that you are absolutely correct; they can be a very engaging and enjoyable read 😉
      Thanks again for checking me out!

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  4. ronbrownx

    For her young nephew who’d just gotten stationed at neighboring, Robins Air Force base, she provided a place of family comfort; some delicious chitlins and rice; and lots of laughs. Truly a wonderful woman!

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      1. ronbrownx

        I know, one could feel the love and warmth emanating from her. If I could have a wish granted it would be that everyone loved like that. There would be no more wars or crime, just love; touching but tough

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  5. Jet

    I know Eva’s Place as well as anyone. I’ve lived it. Literally lived it! Her home was my home for a period of time. In fact, I was one of those motley crews, seeking refuge from certain situations. She was always at my side, helping me to find the light you mentioned. The light that navigated my way out of darkness!! Loved her! Happy Mother’s Day, Eva!! Happy Mother’s Day to you too, Gwin!!

    Liked by 2 people

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    1. Thank you so much for sharing that story Aunt Jet. As you know, she was that light for so many different ones. I remember when you were there for that brief while. We had some good times.
      While I appreciated mama while she was alive, it did not occur to me how much of an impact she made on others until after she died. When you’re living it, it is hard to see the forest for the trees.
      Happy Mother’s Day dear Aunt! Thanks for stopping by!

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  6. A wonderful and eloquent depiction of a woman that was an exemplary Mother in every sense of the word. Real Mothers instinctively offer havens,love and advice and that’s just a few of their queen qualities that make them so special and necessary to the world. You are blessed to have had one of these women as your own Mother.

    When they depart this earth their spirits, their teachings, their love, their emotional gifts live on forever.

    I’ve never met you – and have known you for a short period of time, however from your writings, insights, and experiences you’ve shared here – I see a reincarnation of “Ms Eva” within you.And that my friend is a blessing for us all because right now this world badly needs more “Ms Evas” to bring back the balance in a badly skewed society where few hardly cares about anybody or anything beyond the almighty green and greed anymore.

    Yes, I sure Ms.Eva would approve of your wonderful place here on the Internet. I suspect she’s smiling down on it approval thinking “That’s my girl”.

    Speaking for myself – I have enjoyed every visit to “Ms Eva’s Daughter’s Place” and always leave motivated, invigorated, and informed..

    Thank you.

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    1. Thank you so much G! I so appreciate your taking time to express such warm and wise thoughts.

      You hit the mark when you talked about the world needing more people like mama. That is why I decided to create a space that I hoped would mimic her place. In my mind’s eye, I want to see people who are tired, disenchanted or spiritually, socially and mentally drained gather here and experience some entertainment and some substance.

      It makes me feel so special to know that you believe that I am on my way to doing just that!
      🙂

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      1. Oh snap! You know what smack me up side the head and send me out to the tree for a switch. I’m all late wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day Gwin! (I sure hope this tree has some twigs left on it).

        Happy Mother’s Day Gwin!

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  7. T. Wayne

    Sounds like your mom was a great woman…well, she had to have been to have raised a great woman like you!

    Happy Mother’s Day, Twin! Beautiful post; something we all should aspire to be is more like Eva.

    Liked by 3 people

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