Success is measured in so many ways. Today, it is most often measured in money. How much you make, how much you have socked away and for a not-for-profit organization, how much you raise.

My mom and several other mom’s from the Chicagoland PFLAG chapters raised a pile of money for the organization outside of the Sidetrack bar Sunday evening. The amount, just shy of $1,800, is to be celebrated.

Shortly after the even, my mom called to let me know she was suffering from a severe case of beard burn. I knew she and the other mom’s had redefined the events success. It was no longer about the amount of money raised, it was about the hugs, kisses and heaps of unconditional love the moms gave each gay and lesbian child that passed by.

Thanks mom, for sacrificing your cheeks.