Bernard O'Shea: Three lessons from my mother that have served me well

Each year, as my wife jokingly points out that our first son was born on International Women's Day, it adds a whimsical twist to the celebration in our household. Yet, beyond the serendipity of the date, it's my mother's enduring advice that has shaped my journey as a husband, father, and comedian. 

Over the years, she's gifted me with three pearls of wisdom that resonate deeply, particularly as I navigate the complexities of parenthood and adulthood.

'Give them a basin of water'

First and foremost, my mother's deceptively simple suggestion to entertain the kids with only a basin of water and a few cups speaks volumes about her pragmatic approach to parenting. "Just give them a basin and some cups," she'd say, and like magic, hours would pass as the children immersed themselves in the sensory experience (yes, indeed, the science backed up the importance of water play) of this nugget of wisdom. 

Little did I realise then that this homespun advice held far-reaching benefits, nurturing their creativity, honing their motor skills, and fostering mindfulness in a world often overrun by screens and gadgets. And let's remember its added bonus: providing a handy distraction on those mornings when parental energy levels are less than optimal due to a night out on the town.

'You can't bring it with you'

Secondly, my mother's timeless reminder that "you can't take it with you" is a gentle prod to reassess my relationship with money. As someone predisposed to spend freely, her words serve as a sobering reality check, urging me to find a balance between financial security and living life to the fullest. 

Raised in an era of scarcity, where every penny counted, her perspective on wealth underscores the importance of prioritising experiences and connections over material possessions. But we're a family of magpies and have always leaned towards one pocket out the other. My sisters are world famous for their retail stamina even if they say so themselves that they "haven't a penny" and "what the harm in having a look". 

But it's sage advice because when you are gone, all the money in the world won't make a difference. No one at your funeral will say, "Weren't they fantastic fiscal budgeters."

'Cherish the years when your kids are small'

Lastly, amid the whirlwind of raising three young children, my mother's admonition to cherish these fleeting years reverberates with poignant clarity. Despite the exhaustion and chaos that often accompany parenthood, she encourages me to find joy in the journey, reminding me that these tumultuous early years will pass all too quickly. 

It's easy to pine for a semblance of normalcy or yearn for uninterrupted sleep, but her wisdom urges me to embrace the chaos and revel in the magic of childhood while it lasts. "There will come a day when they won't want to be seen dead with you". She is 100% right, of course. God, I'm dreading living in a house with teenagers.

As we think about the superficial yet deep advice our moms give us, it's clear their words mean a lot. Whether it's enjoying the fun of playing with water, thinking differently about money, or appreciating the crazy moments of being a parent, their guidance shapes how we live and see the world.

So, on International Women's Day, let's not just celebrate the big names in history but also give a shoutout to the fantastic women in our own lives. From practical tips to deep thoughts, their words are the foundation of who we are and where we're headed. But most importantly, remember the first piece of advice. I promise it will be useful the morning after an "energetic" night out.