Mr. Speaker, it has been said that the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. Mothers play a defining role in shaping our future. When our world falls apart, they hold us together. They care and pray for us. As we approach Mother's Day, I want to thank all mothers who continue to do what only they can. Without them, there is no future.
On a personal note, I want to pay tribute to the mothers in my life who have helped shape me and my family, including my incredible wife, Crystal, the mother of our three children; my mother-in-law, Lillian Cole; my great-grandmother Vada Sullivan; and especially my mom, who recently celebrated her 72nd birthday and is battling a debilitating disease. She raised four children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love, resilience, humour and faith are an example to us all. Though her speech is somewhat broken and her steps are now unsteady, her hope is steadfast and her legacy is assured.
From the floor of the people's House, the House of Commons of Canada, I thank my mom. I love her, and I am proud to be called her son. I wish my mom a happy Mother's Day.