Kathy had already raised her kids and dealt with all the frustrating stages of growing up. For the next hour we talked and prayed. By the time she drove me home, my feelings of failure and frustration were replaced with relief that other moms struggled in the same way and lived through it. Better yet, with persistence and patience their kids turned out just fine.

Kathy is one of several older women God has brought into my life. I consider each one a gift for her wisdom, guidance, and willingness to share what God has taught her about raising children, building a godly marriage, balancing work and household responsibilities, and growing a deeper relationship with God. Some are like big sisters I can vent and laugh with; others are surrogate moms I can run to for comfort and advice. All stand as living examples that we not only survive the daily frustrations of life, but we are also better, stronger women because of them.

When Mary learned that she was to give birth to the Savior, she ran to her older cousin Elizabeth, who was also pregnant with a miracle child. Clearly our Father values relationships that span generations. Who has God brought into your life as a mentor, big sister in Christ, or fill-in mom? What has she taught you about perseverance, being a good wife, or loving Jesus? How can you pass on to others what you have gained?