A Mother's Day Message from Craig

Friends,

Today we celebrate Mother's Day, a time to honor the women who sacrifice so much for their families. I'd like to share with you about two of the most important women in life.

As I've traveled the state on the campaign trail, I've often shared the story of my childhood. I come from a very humble background. I ate my fair share of mayonnaise-only sandwiches. And in third grade, I saw that yellow slip of paper on our apartment door that meant my mother, brother and I would have to move from our home. But despite the difficult circumstances of my youth, the thing that stands out most to me is the character of the woman who cared for me and my brother.

Craig with his mother Nancy after his first U.S. Senate candidate debate in Austin, January 2012

My mother had the courage to leave an abusive relationship and take on the daunting task of raising two young boys alone. She moved us from East Texas to Houston, where every morning she would get in her old VW and drive downtown to her job as a secretary. She never asked for government assistance and she never complained. She simply worked hard and provided for her children as best she could. If anyone has taught me what it means to have a backbone of steel and how to overcome obstacles, it's my mother. 

I've also shared how I first met my wife Marilyn when we were teenagers. At just 15 years old, I saw Marilyn sitting on her front porch one day. It was love at first sight.

And, as I like to joke, it was my first sales job because I had to convince 16-year-old Marilyn to not only go on a date with me, but since she had a driver's license and I didn't, I asked her to drive! She said yes, and nearly 30 years later, she is still my soulmate and best friend. Together, we have raised four children and we look forward to spending the rest of our lives together.

My mother and wife are just two examples of the millions of women in our nation who selflessly love their families. Although we honor them today, we should appreciate them every day.

Happy Mother's Day.

For Faith, Freedom and Texas,