Mother’s Day is today. Despite our many mistakes, when we fail, it helps us to become the mother our children need. We are thankful for the precious people who call us “Mom.” Give us the wisdom in raising the children entrusted to us. Both the agony and the ecstasy of motherhood are experienced moment by moment.

In every heart there are memories that leave their marks on our lives. A mother is many, many things. Her arms and heart will always hold you, and her mind will teach you. A family is a legacy of love we have been given. Faith is a constant thread strengthening the fabric of the family.

Mothers, single women ”“ and sometimes men or even grandparents ”“ are the keepers of the home. Kids need to know that they are loved, but just as importantly, they need to know we believe them, trust them, are proud of them and care about the details of their life. Hearts grow together and keep the fires on the hearth burning with a steady flame of caring for one another.

As the childhood years pass, a mother knows it is time to say, “I have given you roots, and now it is time to give you wings to fly.”

For mothers who have passed on, their children will never stop loving and missing them.

In addition to marking Mother’s Day this month, May is also Water Safety Awareness Month. To do its part, the Michael Phelps Skill Center in Saco is offering free swim evaluations to promote healthy, active lifestyles ”“ especially for children, primarily by expanding the opportunities for participation in the sport of swimming.

It is reported that drowning is the leading cause of accidental, injury-related deaths of children between the ages of 1 and 5. The Michael Phelps Skill Center’s mission is to protect everyone from possible drowning through education and heightened water safety awareness.

There is something for the entire family during this fun and informative month of water safety.

The Biddeford Recreation Department is partnering with the Michael Phelps Skill Center to provide aquatic opportunities for youth and adults. There are many options available for all levels of skill and abilities, starting for children as young as 3 years old. Programs will include water safety, health, youth development and awareness.

For more information, call Heidi Pare at the Michael Phelps Skill Center at 494-8200 or email heidi.pare@michaelphelpsskillcenter.com. For more information on Biddeford Recreation Department, check out the website at www.biddefordrec.com or call 283-0841.

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at zhadiaris@hotmail.com.