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!