A Promise I Made to My Mother Before Her Death

By Dr. David Rex Orgen – Best-Selling Author & Pastor

Some promises are made in passing, soon forgotten with time. Others are made in sacred moments, forever shaping the course of one’s life. The promise I made to my mother before her passing was one of duty, faith, and purpose—a lifelong commitment that continues to define who I am and the work I do.

A Mother’s Last Words: Lessons in Faith and Love

My mother was a woman of deep wisdom, resilience, and unwavering love. She believed that true success was not about wealth or status but about impacting lives and making a difference. In her final days, she did not dwell on material possessions but spoke of purpose, service, and the responsibility to carry forward the values she instilled in me.

As I sat by her side, she reminded me of the power of perseverance, the importance of humility, and the strength of faith. Then, with a quiet but firm voice, she made one request:

“Promise me that you will walk in your purpose, use your life to uplift others, and never let fear stop you from fulfilling your destiny.”

At that moment, I made a vow—one that would shape the course of my life:
To live with purpose, to help others, and to honor the values she held dear.

The Weight of a Promise

A promise made in such a sacred moment is not just a commitment—it is a calling. Since my mother’s passing, this promise has been my guiding light, shaping my career, leadership, and passion for helping others.

Every project I undertake, every life I touch, and every step I take is a reflection of that vow. In moments of doubt or exhaustion, I remember the conviction in my mother’s voice—the faith she had in me, the certainty that I would carry on her legacy.

Honoring this promise is not about personal success but about living a life of meaning, compassion, and integrity.

Overcoming Fear and Stepping Into Purpose

One of the biggest obstacles to fulfilling any promise is fear—fear of failure, fear of the unknown, fear of not being enough. My mother understood this, which is why she always reminded me that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to move forward despite it.

Her words continue to remind me that fear should never dictate my future. That promise I made was not just for my mother—it was for myself, my family, and those I have the privilege to impact.

Each of us carries a promise deep within—a commitment to something greater than ourselves. The true measure of our lives is not in what we plan to do but in what we actually fulfill.

A Legacy That Lives On

My mother may no longer be here, but her wisdom, love, and strength live on through me. A promise is more than just words—it is a legacy, a purpose, and a responsibility.

For anyone who has lost a loved one, I encourage you to honor their memory through action. Keep their values alive, live with intention, and never forget the power of a promise.

A promise is not a burden—it is a gift. And as long as I live, I will keep mine.