My mother, Mary Hawa Zeon, was the embodiment of love, strength, courage, and unwavering faith. She was a dedicated mother to five children and raised us with a fierce determination that shaped who I am today. Born in a small town in Harbel Firestone, just west of Monrovia, Liberia, my mother married my father, Shelton Sekou Zeon and together, they built a life filled with love, but their greatest blessing was the family they created.

 

In 1978, when I was just 12 years old, my parents made the bold decision to move our family to the United States in search of better opportunities. My father settled in Salisbury, North Carolina, and after a year of hard work, he was able to bring the rest of us over. I was the oldest of the children—my three siblings ranged in age from 2 to 11 at the time. It was a difficult transition, but my parents had always been determined to give us the best life possible, no matter the cost.

 

In 1981, our family was blessed with a fifth child, a son, completing our family of five. In 1985, our world was turned upside down. My father suffered a massive heart attack in front of us, and despite all efforts, he passed away in our living room. Suddenly, my mother was left to raise five children alone, with ages ranging from 3 to 17.

What I witnessed in my mother during those years was nothing short of extraordinary. She was a rock. Even though she had every reason to feel broken, she stayed strong for us. She trusted in God and kept her faith, knowing that He would guide her. Watching her, I learned what true strength looked like—how a mother could shoulder the weight of the world and still give love, care, and guidance to her children.

 

Despite the challenges of raising us on her own, my mother never wavered. She poured herself into our family and her church, becoming a pillar of support for everyone around her. She served as the president of the women’s ministry in our church for six years, leading with grace and dedication. Her service wasn’t just limited to her role at church; she was always there for neighbors, friends, and anyone in need. She never thought of herself; she only thought of us, of how to give us the best, no matter what the cost to her.

In 2001, when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was a devastating blow. The cancer spread quickly, but even in her pain, she never stopped being the mother we needed. She continued to care for my two younger brothers, guiding them through their teenage years, all while fighting a battle she knew she could not win.

 

My mother passed away in February 2002, leaving us with the painful loss of our greatest supporter and role model. But she left us with so much more: a legacy of faith, love, and resilience. She taught us how to be strong, how to believe in ourselves, and how to trust in God's plan—even in the darkest moments.

Her legacy lives on through us, her children. I found myself facing many of the same challenges she did when my own marriage ended, and I became a single mother. The same strength, the same faith, that my mother had carried for years is the foundation I rely on today. I raise my children with the same determination she showed, knowing that her spirit is always with me.

Now, as a grandmother, it gives me great pride to continue honoring my mother’s memory by living out the values she instilled in me. Her legacy is one of service, faith, and the unbreakable bond of family. I will continue to carry that torch, ensuring that her strength and spirit are passed down to the next generation.

 

My mother’s life is a testimony to the power of love, faith, and perseverance. She was, and always will be, my inspiration.