It is Mother’s Day in the UK this Sunday and as such feel that it is important to dedicate this post to mothers because we truly deserve not just an applause but a standing ovation.
What does being a mother mean to you?
When I think of the word ‘mother’ I cannot but smile as endearing pictures and thoughts cross my mind. Although we have our biological mothers, we cannot leave out our non-biological mothers. Caregivers in the form of aunties, grandmothers, childminders, nannies who all play a motherly role in nurturing our children.
‘Mother’, a word that means so many things to many people but yet a common thread runs through them all. Love, care, affection, nurture, protection are words never far from our minds.
I thought to share a snippet on just why mums are the best and deserve to be celebrated.
Being 100% responsible for another human being
Even before a child is born, the nurture and care begins. During pregnancy, we want to eat well and remain healthy as we are mindful of another being growing inside us.
Then comes labour when that tiny being is birthed into the world. I have had my fair share of drama when it comes to morning sickness and then my experiences during labour just takes it to another level. I may share that someday.
Now, baby arrives and our world changes and no book you read or experiences shared could have ever prepared you for the rude awakening. You realise how important your role is and the gravity of your responsibility. You are the ultimate source of your child’s love, care and nurture.
Selfless love
No one can ever love your child more than you do. Without even thinking about it we pour love and affection into the lives and hearts of our children. We dote over them showing them how to love others through our expression of love.
We love our children just as they are, we love them for their differing personalities and we love them unconditionally.
Pouring and not expecting to receive back
Mothers pour into the lives of not just their own children but into the lives of those around them. The love of a mother is like a deep flowing well that just keeps giving and never seems to run dry.
I look at the women that I am surrounded by. Older and younger women who are part of our support system, standing in as mother, grandma and aunty. Giving of themselves just because they care.
We give from and out of our hearts without expecting anything in return.
Investment and Sacrifice
Spending quality time with our children and making sacrifices so we can give them the best and invest in their future.
Many mothers work tirelessly to make ends meet whilst others prioritise and sometimes give up career and amazing opportunities just so they can spend time with their child because they realise that they can never quite get that time back as the children grow.
Hopes and Dreams
Every mother wants her child to succeed. We pray, guide and work with our children. We help them navigate the course of life so that they can be that best, soaring and growing to become responsible adults who one day could be responsible for another being.
A lifetime contract
Let’s face it, motherhood, never stops. We never stop loving, stop hoping and dreaming or giving selflessly when it comes to our children. I look at my mother and how she dotes on our girls, her grandchildren. My mother would plan her holidays around when we need help with childcare. Tell me, if this is not love. I cannot but see myself doing the same for our girls when they have their own families. It is the circle of life.
So you see, this is not for the short haul. It is a lifetime commitment and one I hope that we are all thankful for.
To Mothers who have children, expectant mothers, mothers (by faith) who are trusting God for a child, all those ‘like a mother’ and to mothers who have passed away. This is dedicated to you.
I honour you today. Thank you for pouring so much love, care and attention not just into the lives of your children but also your loved ones.
A mother’s role cannot be underrated. She is needed not just by her family but society too. She is the glue that binds it all together.
Mothers, do not wait to be celebrated. Celebrate yourself today and give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
xoxo
