My mother lent me this book and told me it was one of her favorites. I thought it was only right to read it for Mother's Day.

I didn't think it would be my type of book, as I'm generally not a spiritual person like my mom is. However, even with my agnostic worldview, this book touched me. Rather than being a strictly "Christian" story, it's more of a lovely story about a man learning the meaning his life held that he couldn't see when he was alive. It made me think of myself and what I believe are my own shortcomings, and then of all the people who love me despite those shortcomings, and then all of the strangers I've affected in ways I don't even know about.

My mental health recently took a sharp decline that disrupted my life. I don't think it's a coincidence that my mom lent this to me during my recovery period. I saw a lot of myself in Eddie as a character, and I think she knew I would. I'm grateful that she is so smart, and giving, and the kindest person I know. It means I got to connect with a story I might have otherwise never encountered on my own.

Happy Mother's Day to all the good mothers out there, but especially to my own (I'm pretty biased, I know, but she is definitely the best one). Make sure to reach out to your own mom, or if she is not a part of your life, reach out to whoever comes to mind when you think about the holiday and let them know you love them.