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As Mother’s Day approaches, memories of my own childhood come flooding back. There were moments when I was young that I didn’t fully grasp the challenges my family faced. Now, as an adult and a mother myself, those memories take on a deeper meaning. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when many mothers, myself included, reflect on our journeys from childhood to adulthood, carrying with us the weight of past traumas.
As mothers, our primary goal is to provide the best for our children. Yet, in our pursuit of perfection, we often overlook the beauty of the journey itself. I vividly recall a Christmas from my childhood when we couldn’t afford a tree. For me, the tree symbolized the magic of the season more than any gift ever could. On Christmas Eve, my mother and aunt surprised me with a towering tree that seemed to touch the ceiling. Their resourcefulness and love made that Christmas unforgettable, highlighting how even in our most challenging times, my mother managed to create a sense of wonder and safety for me.
Motherhood is an evolving journey, one that doesn’t come with a manual. Each child requires a different part of us, and we navigate this path with unconditional love. As a single mother, I’ve learned that our desires, no matter how heartfelt, can sometimes lead us astray. I once almost made a life-altering decision driven by the desire for a specific experience during childbirth. It was a stark reminder of the importance of staying grounded and prioritizing our well-being.
To all the mothers reading this, I want you to know that you are doing an incredible job. It’s not about the material things; it’s about the moments you create with your children. Whether it’s helping with homework, tending to them when they’re sick, or simply being present, these are the moments that shape their memories and your bond with them. This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate the remarkable journey of motherhood and the love that sustains us through it all.
Photo Credit: Keith Mallett