Insurance Marketing Insights for Independent Agents | New Horizons

Honoring the Mothers in Our Lives

Written by New Horizons Staff | May 12, 2026 2:24:02 PM

Mother’s Day gives us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for the women whose influence quietly and powerfully shapes our lives. At New Horizons, we are surrounded by stories of resilience, faith, compassion, humor, and unwavering love. So many mothers embody these values every day, often without recognition or expectation of praise.

This year, members of the New Horizons team shared tributes to the mothers who have inspired them. Though each story is uniquely personal, common themes like unconditional love, selflessness, strength, and faith emerge to describe the mothers in our lives.

The Quiet Constant of Our Family

John Hockadays tribute paints a vivid picture of steadfast devotion. His mother, Becky Hockaday, is 94 years old and has lived in the same home for 72 years. She was married to John’s father for 62 years, raised three boys, and has 51 grandchildren and great-grandchildren to date.

Becky is the definition of purposeful living. She still scrubs her kitchen floors on her hands and knees “because you can’t get in the corners with a mop,” and she runs the weed eater in her yard, pushing a mower herself until just a few years ago. She remembers every birthday and anniversary, prays continuously for her family, and regularly reminds them how good the Lord has been to them.

One of her favorite sayings is, “Inch by inch it’s a cinch, yard by yard it’s hard.” This saying captures her steady, faithful approach to life. She never feels alone because, as she often says, “The Lord is always with me.”

“Mom, you are the quiet constant, spiritual example to our family, and a blessing to everyone who knows you. Love you, Mom. Happy Mother’s Day!”

Strength That Endures

For Kirk Sarff, Mother’s Day celebrates a living example of grit, resilience, and faith. His mother, Bernadine Sarff, is 97 years young and still living independently, sharp-minded and physically active. She walks and exercises nearly every day and remains a fiercely loyal Cubs fan, whether they win or lose.

But Bernadine’s strength goes far beyond physical endurance. It is rooted in an unwavering faith that has guided her through nearly a century of life’s highs and lows. She is resilient, determined, and approaches each day with intention and perseverance.

“She continues to inspire all of us who are lucky enough to know her. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. We love you!”

Selfless Love and Unshakable Compassion

Amber Haddock describes her mother as a woman whose life is defined by service and love. A cancer survivor, her mom embodies compassion, strength, and selflessness, always putting the needs of others before her own.

“She is always there to help with the big things or the little things, no matter what she has going on.”

Amber credits her own loving heart to the example her mother sets every day, especially in the way she loves her children and grandchildren. One detail stands out beautifully: every conversation or text ends with the words “I love you.” It’s a simple habit, yet one that leaves a lasting effect. It is proof that love can be powerful in the small, consistent ways it is expressed.

“Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you.”

A Mother, Best Friend, and Lifelong Support

For Kachina Gordan, her mom is not only a parent but also her best friend and support system. Kind, generous, and funny, she cares deeply for her family and friends and has been a source of unwavering support through some of life’s most difficult trials. Kachina credits her mother’s encouragement and love as the reason she makes it through those moments.

Their relationship is filled with love and laughter, sharing shopping adventures, scary books and movies, traveling together, and spending evenings chatting around the fire pit. Kachina jokes that she did not inherit her mom’s cooking talent, but she brags her mother’s lasagna is the best and a once-a-year tradition worth waiting for.

Living only a few doors apart has turned everyday moments into treasured memories, from racing golf carts to sharing stories of her mom’s many adventures. It’s a relationship rooted in closeness, laughter, and a deep sense of gratitude.

“She makes my life complete in so many ways, it’s hard to put that into words.”

Recognizing the Everyday Moments

For Shannan Weaver, Mother’s Day is a reminder to pause and appreciate all that mothers do, often without being asked and rarely expecting recognition. The love, strength, and steady support they give shape families in ways that last a lifetime.

Shannan acknowledges the sacrifices her mom makes, the care she shows, and the countless times she has put others first. Her presence, guidance, and love mean more than words can express, and they are felt every single day.

“Hoping your Mother’s Day reminds you just how appreciated you truly are, Mom!”

The Glue That Holds It All Together

For Mother’s Day, Tyler Petersen celebrates not only his own mom, but also his wife and mother-in-law. Though each is different, they share something special: they are always there when needed and are the glue that holds their team(s) together.

His appreciation highlights an often-overlooked truth that maternal strength shows up in many forms and across generations. It’s found in daily sacrifices, the behind-the-scenes care, and the quiet consistency that keeps families moving forward.

I am grateful for what they do day in and day out!”

Conclusion

These reflections come from different families, stages of life, and experiences, but together they form a powerful story of motherhood. They remind us that the impact of a mother isn’t measured by recognition, but by the steady presence she brings to the lives around her.

At New Horizons, we are grateful for the mothers who raised us, support us, pray for us, stand by us, and love us unconditionally. Their influence shapes who we are, not just as professionals, but as people.

To all the mothers, grandmothers, mothers-in-law, and mother figures who pour their hearts into others every day: Happy Mother’s Day! Your strength, love, and faith are felt in ways both seen and unseen, and they continue to shape the lives around you.