Ode to the Longsuffering Southern Mama

Hello folks, let’s chat…I’m here today as a voice of reason. There has been some concern mentioned among my girlfriends that our generation could be in danger of losing a long held and iconic trait of the Southern Mama Hood.

The sober suggestion has been made that we belles are growing increasingly incapable of properly portraying the Longsuffering Southern Mama, defined as one who is so saintly as to suffer on behalf of her offspring without bothering them with her pain—at least not in an overtly obvious way.  She’s much too subtle for that.

I’ve spent some time studying this special skill set. I’m happy to share my conclusion with y’all, but first, let’s look at a defining illustration involving one of the experts to make sure that we’re all on the same page.

One of our girlfriends recently went out of the country on a mission trip. The trip meant she would be without cell phone service for almost a week. Her husband was concerned about not being able to stay in touch with her, as were her children, but none of them summed up the impact this trip might have on their lives quite as succinctly as her Longsuffering Southern Mama.

“Now, don’t you worry one bit about me while you’re gone,” her Longsuffering Southern Mama said. This while my harried friend was making arrangements for her husband, kids, pets, and anybody else who might be affected by her absence as she simultaneously packed, got immunization shots, made her lists and checked ‘em twice.

“If I die while you’re gone,” her Longsuffering Southern Mama continued, “I’ve given orders to everyone that I don’t want anyone calling you and messing up your trip. There’s no sense in you hurrying home for my funeral. I’ll be still dead when you get back.”

Be at peace, my fellow belles, even with genes as strong as ours the fact remains: You can’t rush that kind of skill. It has to be developed over time.

Hugs, Shellie

P.S.  Thank you to everyone who gave to this year’s 30 Days of Thankfulness Drive. I’m delighted to report that we raised $10,000 — enough to drill TWO wells for two needy communities. Y’all rock!

Also, I’ve updated the Shellie.TV podcast page with last week’s episode of ATS LIVE with special guest Missy Robertson from Duck Dynasty. I think you’ll enjoy it!

And one more thing– that’s my own dear Mama rocking that pic in this post! Go Charlotte Ann– you’ve still got it!