Mother’s Day

This is my favorite photo of my mom: in Houston, Texas circa 1989. She’s probably 48-ish here (roughly my age today, which is wild to even think about). She was gorgeous, wasn’t she?! And oh man, one scrappy woman.

Since sharing my story of being a child elite gymnast on Hahnacity the podcast, some people have asked if gymnastics was really my choice or my parents’ choice. And I can honestly say, I was one of the lucky ones – it was truly my choice. 

We were house poor growing up, but my mom was an acrobat when it came to juggling money and finding resources to fund my dream.

And when injuries forced me to give up my dream, my mind believing I was a terrible failure – my mom celebrated my homecoming.

Years later when I was a competitive diver transforming into a full-bodied teenager, my coach told me I had to lose 5, then 7, then 10 lbs. Thus began my relationship with disordered eating, weight fluctuations, and hiding in baggy clothes. 

My mom would say, “You’re beautiful, your body is beautiful!” I would spiral out, but she never put me down for my size or shape, or told me what to eat.

And whenever I felt nervous or stuck with an overwhelming task, Mom would say, “Once you start, you’re halfway there.” She always believed that if you put in the effort, you’ll find your way through it. 

At nearly the age she is in this wonderful photo, I see my children in the same way she saw me, and share with them the wisdom that she shared with me.

Thank you, Mom. Love you. Your legacy lives on. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all who are raising the next generation with such love, acceptance, and compassion.

All the best,

Laura

Note: This and every Athlete Illuminated post is for educational purposes only and not a replacement for mental health treatment. If you are in urgent need of mental health support, please call 9-8-8. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room. For ongoing mental health concerns, consider seeking professional support or therapy.