A Mother’s Bond: A Tribute to Thelma Mason

The bond I shared with my mother was truly unmatchable. We had a unique and special relationship that I will forever cherish. My mother was the real deal—she spoke with wisdom, honesty, and truth. That is what I loved most about her, and it’s what so many others admired as well. She had a genuine spirit, always loving and caring for others, often going above and beyond in ways that many would not. If there was a need, she met it.

My mother stood firmly for what was right. She didn’t concern herself with who agreed or disagreed—she walked in truth and integrity. She commanded respect and, naturally, she received it. She was my first and forever best friend, even though as a child she would remind me, “I’m not your friend, I’m your mother,” making sure I understood her role in guiding me.

She was a woman of many gifts and talents. She played the piano, sang beautifully, directed choirs, baked, and was an excellent cook. She coordinated weddings, served as a Christian counselor, and taught the Word of God. Above all, she was a woman who truly lived her life for the Lord. She deeply loved her husband, her daughter, her grandchildren, her bonus son, and all of her family and friends.

As I reflect on my memories of her, I miss everything—her laughter, her smile, her sense of humor, her sassiness, and even her bold, outspoken nature (which, I admit, sometimes embarrassed me—but I think I may have inherited that trait).

As the years passed, I had the honor of caring for her, with the support of my family. When her health began to decline more rapidly and things became increasingly difficult, we ensured she was cared for with love and dignity. I would do it all over again without hesitation. Through it all, I witnessed her strength.

She would often say, “I’m going home,” meaning she was preparing to be with the Lord. Her faith never wavered. She stood firmly on the foundation that Jesus Christ was Lord over her life, and she knew where she was going—even until her very last breath. It was not easy to witness, but it was truly an honor to be there with her in those final moments.

I hold close the words she would speak to me during the storms of my life: “Dawn, be still. Be still and know that I am God.” She would close her eyes, shake her head, and say, “He knows, He knows. Where is your faith?” As a child, she taught me Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” This has become one of my favorite scriptures.

A song that often comes to mind is:

“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.

Because He lives, all fear is gone.

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living just because He lives.”

My forever best friend, my mother, Thelma Mason.