My entire life I’ve always been against buying flowers…that changed in February 2018.

I walked into the flower shop searching for the perfect bouquet of flowers. It took me about 20 minutes because the place was packed. Finally, I found three different sets, one for each awesome lady in my life. I slowly moved through the store to the cash register. I waited nervously while other customers paid. Eventually, I made my way to the front. My hands were shaking. I set all the flowers on counter then the cashier said a few words, “Hello sir! Do you need anything else?”

I couldn’t contain myself any longer.

I broke down. I couldn’t speak. I was crying like I’ve never cried before.

The cashier was confused at first then asked “Is Diane Gillum your mother?” I shook my head yes because I was unable to talk.

Living in a small town your entire life everyone knows everyone. In previous years, my mom actually worked part-time at this flower shop during Valentine’s Day. The cashier walked around and gave me a hug and said “Tyler I’m so sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful woman!” The three bouquet of flowers I bought that day were for both grandmothers and my fiancé at the time (now my wife) but I spent the most money on my #1 fan…Mom.

Unfortunately this time she couldn’t physically receive the flowers. Out of all the jobs I’ve had in my life, picking up my mother’s flower arrangements for her funeral was by far the hardest.

In the past, I always thought buying flowers was dumb because eventually they die but what I realized in that moment is eventually we all die. It’s not about the money or even the flowers….it’s about the happiness you spread to others while giving those flowers away.

Valentine’s week will always be emotional for me but I know my duty going forward is to do what my mom did everyday…..

Live life to the fullest and love people with all your heart.

She was the best at those two things. Thank you for the lessons Mom. I Love you!

So for all you tough hard headed guys like I was in the past…..GO BUY THE DAMN FLOWERS this year!!