Celebrating St. Martin Moms: Marguerite Josephine Tyrell

5/7/2015

As told by Ayana Tyrell

My mother is Marguerite Josephine Tyrell aka Mommy. Awesome—I chose that word because there is no other word to describe her. After everything we've been through, she's still standing when others around her would have fallen by the wayside. She speaks St. Martin English when she is angry; however, one time I made her very happy was when I got called to the utter bar of England and Wales. I knew that she was extremely proud. It was not only my dream but her sacrifice, tears and sweat. So we were being called that night.

I admire her tenacity - no matter what life has thrown at her - yet she stands! I am like her in every way because she is a part of me and those before her; and hopefully for my children, I will be me, her and the ancestors that came before.

She didn’t stay at home; she worked from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Three ways this benefited me ... it taught me to be aware, independent and responsible. She has also contributed to her community, her St. Martin, by always defending her (St. Martin) honour. My mom has always been an activist - wherever there was injustice she was there, always ready to help.

I have no clue who her inspiration is but I know her faith in GOD renews her spirit and gives her the strength to face her day anew. There are plenty of times I can recall that she was there for me, but there is one that sticks out in my mind. The incident completely changed the dynamics of our relations, she was no longer just my mom, but she became my best friend. It was while I was studying and let's just say I had lost my way for a minute. I couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel. I remember my mom coming to visit. And one night I curled up like a kitten under her and I just released all the hurt, pain, disappointment, guilt, everything and from that day to this day, she has never repeated what I disclosed, or judged. That night she held me as I wept in her lap and simply said that it’s ok. And I knew what God's unconditional love looked like.

She has taught me to never give up!

I truly think she awesome, and though we may argue like cats and dogs. I wouldn’t trade her for the world. She's been my rock and I love her; I really do.