Mother’s Day

I wanted to take a (short) break from the campaign trail to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms we have in the Democratic Party.

Mother’s Day has always been a special day for me, and somehow even more so since my mom passed away almost 11 years ago.

My mother, Gail Bauman, was a very special woman to all who knew her.

A single mom who taught me how to tie a tie, pick a suit, throw a punch, and how to stand up for those less fortunate than we were.

A nurse who cared for her patients as if they were family.

A lesbian out of the closet in 1960’s New York who never accepted anything less than equal treatment.

And she was even a professional bowler — one of the few traits she didn’t pass down to me.

I’ll be thinking of her today, as those of you who’ve lost your mothers will, I’m sure.

The day I delivered her eulogy was one of the most difficult of my life, but I always remember Mother’s Day as a time that was hers and mine alone, spent happily having bagels and lox and a glass of champagne. I miss her, but my heart is filled with warm, loving memories that no one can ever take away from me.

If you’re fortunate to still have your mother, be sure to give her a big hug today and take the time to tell how important she is to you. You’ll be glad you did.

Democratically Yours,

Eric C. Bauman (“That trouble-making boy of Gail’s”)