On this Mother’s Day, I would like to honor not only my own mother but also the universal force of the Mother and the women in my life who have embodied this transcendent role.
Having lost my mother 20 years ago to a brief battle with cancer, I have spent my adult life without her physical presence and guidance, but I have been graced over the years to have had many mothers enter my life at times when their guidance, comfort and wisdom was sorely needed. I have received guidance on taking care of my new born son, comfort through a divorce and wisdom as I experience the midlife death and rebirth of my own self. I have learned about universal laws and animal energy. I have heard inspiring stories of strength and resilience from these mothers, too.
Mothering is the embodiment of unconditional love and acceptance. It transcends time, DNA and legal definitions. Mothering happens without even having had a child. Today’s commercial ideas of the “perfect mother” accompanied by the mothering magazines and myriads of products designed to make being a mom more “convenient” have shattered the sacredness of what mothering really represents.
Mothering is universal.
Mothering is nature.
Mothering protects life.
Mothering heals.
Mothering prevents wars.
Mothering inspires.
Mothering collaborates.
Mothering soothes.
Mothering guides.
Mothering teaches.
Mothering gives consequences.
Mothering is wise.
Mothering accepts.
Mothering prepares.
And at the right time, Mothering lets go.
My little one has nestled up with me in bed as I write this. As I watch him sleep, I thank all of the other mothers that have been there for him when I couldn’t and all the mothers who will be there for him in the future.
Thank you to all of my mothers as well as my birth mother who is always with me in spirit. You all have given me gifts beyond measure and made me who I am today.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Nothing like “Mothers day” to get us thinking about the matriarchs in our lives.
Perhaps this poem from the late great Bobby Sands is appropriate here?
Dear Mum
Dear Mum, I know you’re always there
To help and guide me with all your care,
You nursed and fed me and made me strong
To face the world and all its wrong.
What can I write to you this day
For a line or two would never pay
For care and time you gave to me
Through long hard years unceasingly.
How you found strength I do not know
How you managed I’ll never know,
Struggling and striving without a break
Always there and never late.
You prayed for me and loved me more
How could I ask for anymore
And reared me up to be like you
But I haven’t a heart as kind as you.
A guide to me in times of plight
A princess like a star so bright
For life would never have been the same
If I hadn’t of learned what small things came.
So forgive me Mum just a little more
For not loving you so much before,
For life and love you gave to me
I give my thanks for eternity.
Another much repeated quote from Bobby was; “Our revenge will be the laughter of our children.”