"You have taught me what it means to give of yourself to
others and shown me what true joy and satisfaction is, trusting in Jesus
for daily strength and looking to Him for happiness," writes Jill in her introduction.
Now a mother herself, Jill recalls the early days of her childhood, when Michelle had a houseful of young kids and somehow managed to be both their mom and teacher.
"I
remember those afternoons when I could tell you were super tired because
you’d have to stand up at the end of the table versus sitting in a
chair just to keep from nodding off," continues Jill. "But you kept pressing on with a
joyful attitude! You
made learning fun!"
In her books and on her family's TLC reality show, Michelle Duggar has explained how she strives to lower her voice, rather than raise it, when disciplining her children. Jill writes about the positive impact that principle had on her as a child: "I remember that when I disappointed you, you didn’t use demeaning
words, but would say something like, 'That’s not like you to act that
way, you’re a sweet girl!' This allowed me to feel sad for disappointing
you, but also made me feel valued by your praise."
Even though she is the fourth of 19 kids, Jill shares how her mom has always made her feel cherished, during her childhood and now as an adult.
"When I was in labor with Israel, I wanted you there because your
presence brought peace, prayer, encouragement and comfort," says Jill. She closes the letter by telling her mother how much she loves, admires, and misses her. She also includes Bible verses:
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies…Her
children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he
praiseth her.” (Proverbs 31:10, 28)
Visit Jill and Derick Dillard's website to read the full letter.
Photo courtesy TLC/dillardfamily.com/duggarfamily.com
