Mother’s Day is just around the corner and it’s the day we commemorate and celebrate motherhood. I always thought the best thing about Mother’s Day was just spending time with my mom. I’m pretty sure what most of us moms really want this Mother’s Day is to spend quality time with our children.  We want them to know how much we love them!

Most of us manage to do a pretty good job of telling our children they are loved. However, we don’t leave anything behind for them that expresses our love after we are gone.  We leave money, even heirlooms, but we seldom leave our words.  If you have already suffered the loss of your mother, then you know that words mean more than anything.

Take some time this weekend, as you celebrate being a mother, to create a gift for your children they will truly treasure. Write a love letter for each child and place it in your family legacy drawer.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Short is good. Of course you could write a 15-page letter, but you really don’t have to. A great love letter might be just a few paragraphs. It is the content and quality of the words that matter, not the length.
2. Highlight the positive. Mention all the great qualities and characteristics you see in them. Encourage them to celebrate who they are, and to exercise their gifts.
3. Use the words “I love you”. Make sure you communicate your love for them because of who they are and not because of anything they have accomplished.
4. Favorite memories. Describe a few memories that meant a lot to you. Your child will treasure your perspective.
5. Blessing for the future. Share a truth from God’s word and a specific prayer.

None of us know when our time is up. Take that time now to express the love you have for each of your children in a love letter.  Tomorrow may be too late!