Mom

It was 25  years ago today that my mother passed away.  Instead of writing a tribute to her I would like to share with you what my oldest brother wrote about her a few years ago.

Mabel Hall (nee Jasper)

It is not odd to hear one say that they love their mother and I am no different but I also hold a deep admiration and reverence for our Mom. She had a depth of character that almost defies explanation and a steadfastness that was rooted in her faith like a mighty tree that withstands the buffeting of every torment. Life was not easy for our Mom but she was not given to complaining or self pity; she just faithfully persisted in her God ordained task of raising a family that knew “The Way”.

Lilian Frances Mabel Hall was a quiet, unassuming woman, never one for the glamour of spotlights, but she was powerful in a way that extends well beyond her lifetime. In fact, she was a strong link in that virtuous and Christian heritage passed down to each of her eight children from Arthur Roland and Emily Eliza Jasper.

For those of us that had the privilege to know him, Arthur Jasper Sr. was a quiet yet powerful man. Everything on the Jasper home bore the mark of his hand – orderly, practical, efficient, quality workmanship. He ruled his household with a firm but loving hand based on biblical standards and by clear and unwavering example. As a result, what you saw in one of the eleven Jasper offspring, you saw in all. With the exception of Vern, who had Down’s syndrome, they all left that household prepared to make their mark in the world. No, they had no illusions of being headline makers, just faithful witnesses of God’s grace and exemplary parents. A quick review of the number of missionaries, pastors and Christian lay workers among their descendents will give testimony to how well it has worked.

Mom was a product of that household. She was steadfast in her Christian beliefs and living but she was non-condemning. That was the Jasper way. As I remember Mom, she was very clear in her beliefs with a faith that could endure whatever misfortunes, hardships or obstacles life could send her way. That Dad was a spiritual leader is due in large part to the early influence of Mom and her siblings. In fact, the lengthy courtship of Harry and Mabel was because of her determination to see Harry mature spiritual before marrying him.

I recall saying in her eulogy that I could not recall Mom raising her voice or striking out in anger yet her authority was clear. I recall frequent examples of her wise counsel and her firm but loving disapproval of inappropriate behaviors. Of course, there was always a good reason to comply with her wishes since failure to do so meant that it would be taken to a higher court where both Mom and Dad presided. Even more importantly, I know that she averted many potential problems through early intervention and diversion. As you read on you will see an example of this in the paragraph entitled “Horse sense”.

In today’s social climate of “bubble wrapped kids” where parents are regarded negligent if they do not prevent every conceivable exposure to risk, Mom might have been criticized for her somewhat more permissive attitude toward inventive play. For one, I am grateful indeed for this freedom that she permitted in our self regulated activities. In fact, it is my belief that this early independence gives rise to resourcefulness and creativity. If she had known, she might have been horrified at some of risks to which we exposed ourselves but we all survived and I believe we are better for it. 

Thank you John.