May is such a beautiful month with flowers blooming, little plants seeking the sun and more sunshine to brighten our days and our souls. This time of year reminds me that even during the darkest winter there is hope. Spring always comes. 

I love that we celebrate mothers in the spring. A mother’s love is ever present and we can always rely on their comfort and care, especially in our darkest winters.  

This month I would like to honor Dr. Christopher’s wife, Della Walker Christopher, my grandmother (Mama Nanny as we called her). 

Dr. Christopher had such an incredible mission to fulfill on this earth, and he would not have been able to accomplish it without the support Della provided at home. She kept things running while Dr. Christopher served in the military, made house calls, served unwarranted jail time, and lectured around the world. She provided healthy food and took care of the children holistically. She absolutely supported Dr. Christopher’s way of life – it was their way of life. 

I imagine there were sleepless nights, and stress beyond what we can imagine as she never knew if he would come home safely each evening. Toward the end of his practice, when the persecution was at its height, they would joke as he left the house, “I’ll phone you when I get to jail tonight!” Through it all she understood his mission and made it all possible. Her unwavering love gave him wings. She was the spring during his darkest times.  

As a child I have the best memories of fun holiday celebrations, Mamma Nanny hugs, a twinkle in her eye (or a spark when I slid down the mountain in my new school clothes), and her never ending love for me and each of her beautiful grandchildren. It was easy to be good for such a wonderfully kind woman.  

To all women: You are valued and seen – even when you don’t feel it. You are needed far beyond what you can possibly understand. Your love is the glue that holds families together and inspires amazing growth and creativity. Take a few minutes to sit still and find your light in the darkest winters. You are loved more than you can ever imagine.