Ruth C. Mullaney
Living in Virginia

A Tribute to Ruth C. Mullaney

Ruth C. Mullaney is a special lady; I am proud to say she is my mom. In the following paragraphs, I intend to convey a portion of the tribute I know she deserves. The character traits that are most on my heart today relate to her generosity, her respect, and her strength. These three attributes combine in her life and reach out to bless the lives of others, including mine.

Generosity is evident in the choices she has made for her family, in the time she invests in the community and in the abundant way she provides for each of her loved ones. Mom chose to focus on the nurture and care of my sisters and me rather than pursue employment outside the home; she was always available to me. Her impact on the community includes our schools, Girl Scouts, Head Start, the Fish Pantry, the American Field Service - just to name a few; her vision of a better community is matched by her commitment to give of herself all the time. When it comes to birthday gifts, Christmas gifts, or "just because" gifts, she holds the title "La Noela" (which roughly translates as "Mrs. Claus"); Mom is always on the lookout for items that will mean a lot to the recipient.

Respect is shown to the environment, to people groups and to individuals. Mom not only always told us to leave a place better than you found it, but she is also driven to finding practical ways to make that happen, even as she walks from here to there. Her standards for such care extend to countries around the world through agencies such as UNICEF and the Organization of American States. Everyday as I left for school, Mom reminded me of the importance of respect for others and for myself; she would tell me to make my teachers glad I was there, to think for myself, or to "be alert because the world needs more 'lerts". She showed and told me that she loved me.

Strength manifests itself through Mom in subtle but consistent ways. She stands up for her beliefs and defends those in need. She cares for her yard, her garden and the trees around her home; much of this work requires physical endurance and power. She enjoys the long road, literally and metaphorically. Allow Mom a steady pace across a gentle terrain, and she is glad to go a long way. She faces changes in life that are very hard to bear with courage, and she finds the next step. She keeps in touch with people by calling, by writing and by picking up her luggage and traveling thousands of miles.

Lyrics that capture the essence of Ruth Mullaney are that she would "brighten the corner where you are." This has really been the cornerstone of her impact on my life and on those around me. I am glad to recognize this heritage that I pass along to my children; I look forward to them carrying forth the tradition of generosity, respect and strength exhibited by Farmor, their father's mother.

I love you, Mom. Your son,
David

Content written by David Mullaney (August 2004), reachable at jdm@mullaneyision.net.

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