My Irish Mom

Margaret Mclaughlin lived a fascinating life. As a young Irish girl growing up in Hell's Kitchen in New York City in the 1920's, Margaret learned early on how to hold her own. She wasn't hard though. Growing up with a mother who valued her Catholic faith and family above all else, Margaret learned how to deeply love and invest in her most valuable possessions: her children. As her youngest son, Tom McLaughlin, recalls colorful and heartwarming tales of his childhood with his devoted Irish Mom, a rare treasure is discovered, one that society seems to be quickly burying: the unstoppable spirit of a mother. While Tom and his siblings achieved visible measures of success: playing and coaching basketball in college and for the NBA, among other career highlights, they consider their tight-knit family their best accomplishment. With a "zero-divorce" record, and loving relationships with their children and grandchildren, the generations have proved the impact of a woman who truly beheld the role of "mother." These nostalgic stories are warming and entertaining to the end, however the common theme, Margaret Mclaughlin's selfless devotion to the togetherness of her family, is one our families and culture desperately need. In a world where individual "rights" are screaming loudly, and unraveling relationship and connection at an alarming rate, let Margaret's altruistic mantra "stay close to one another" ring loudly in those with ears left to hear.