The Amazing Influence of a Woman

From LDS.org, used with permission

During May, we can't help but think about mothers, so it is a great time to think about our divine gifts as women that enable us to nurture those around us, whether our own children or otherwise. One Sunday this month during our Relief Society, everyone was asked to think of a woman in their lives that wasn't their own mother that had influenced them or had made an impression on them and tell about them. We are all capable of influencing those around us and may never know the effect we may bring about even in the generations to come.

We will post all of the responses over the next few weeks. Read and be uplifted!


My mom’s best friend has always been like a second mom to me. She has always been so loving and  accepting of me. Now that my mom is gone I’m glad I can still feel her love for me through her best friend. My mom lives on in her.

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Recently a good friend of mine lost her husband. It was an untimely death and came as a shock to her, her family, and others around her. She had the task of breaking the news to her 12-year-old son. He responded as expected. He was very upset and crying. She put her hand on his knee and told him it was going to be okay, that they could do hard things, and that they would make it through this. He calmed down immediately. He could feel her strength and her words gave him security. I watched her as she continued to comfort the people around her and the ones that came to pay their respects at the viewing. She reassured them that all would be okay and that they would see her husband again someday. Her testimony and strength meant a lot to me in my own life. It showed me that with the help of the Lord I can do and get through whatever comes my way.

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I had a music teacher for many years who became a dear friend and mentor. I still remember when I was in college, and my boyfriend I thought I was going to marry broke up with me and I was absolutely devastated. She comforted me and helped me know that I was strong enough to make it through. She has the heart of a Mother. Unable to have biological children, she and her husband adopted several children, some with special needs. She gladly also served in the special needs Mutual for many years. She loved and nurtured all who came in contact with her. She has one of the most Christlike hearts of anyone I know.

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My sister has never married or had kids but has been a great influence on my family and also on lots of young women and Primary girls who she’s been a leader over for many years. She has a kind and generous heart and blesses those around her. I’m so grateful for her in my life.

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I admire the single moms in my life who do it all. They keep house and home together, work, go to soccer games, pay the bills, do a zillion other things, and love their kids fiercely. Instead of dwelling on their problems, they just forget themselves and get to work. I am in awe of their determination, faith, and strength.