Celebrate Mothers

Taking care of a child is a complex responsibility. From the moment they come into our life, we come into theirs. The crying, squabbling, and challenges presented raising children to push the benevolence of even the saintly. A quiet and serene life motherhood is not. Early wake-ups followed by long days of providing for children, shuttling them around, and late nights worrying about their well-being. Being a mother requires an uncommon fortitude.  

A mother takes responsibility for her children ahead of herself. Mothers sacrifice their own wellbeing and goals for the needs of her family. Rearing a child instead of chasing her own dreams or wants first. Extra effort such as packing a child’s lunch each day is but one of many moms put in for their children. Mothers give children what they need even when it means she doesn’t get what she wants. It’s important to show mothers why it was worth forgoing those things to be responsible for all the extra duties. 

Mothers protect. The ferocity of a mother bear protecting her cubs at all costs is often invoked for good reason. Moms help kids feel secure, comfortable, and safe. She makes sure they are taken care of by feeding, sheltering, and protecting. Too often as children grow up, they chafe when mom aims to help. The teenager ready to fly on their own rebuffing mom’s inquisition of where they are headed. The grown adult recoiling at assistance. While mom can’t be responsible for us our entire life, she will always be there when we need it. Share challenges you’re facing with your mother; you may find she is able to help regardless of what it is. 

A mother is one of the first role models. Children watch mom and see what she does, what she says, and how she acts. Mom is that paragon through her actions not only her words. Children are astute and will follow what a mother does even more than what she says. Handling herself in a manner to set an example for impressionable children requires vigilance. Moms don’t get to take time off from setting an example for watchful kids. 

Mothers tune the compass that children will use to navigate life. Children don’t have a concept of morality, purpose, or direction. That is learned by each child from their role models. They rely on their mother to help inform them. Children grow and express the values instilled in them through their life and personality. 

This sets the foundation for our lives. What we value, think is right or wrong, and pursue in life is constructed upon this base. How you react in challenging situations becomes a reflection of these values. Show the mothers in your life what you learned; that you value them! 

Mothers are often the first and most enthusiastic to encourage children to pursue their dreams. Even the unrealistic ones. Turns out I am poorly qualified to be a cheetah, but my mom never discouraged me from dreaming. This sets the stage to tackle big things that others may think are unrealistic. The most audacious of accomplishments has a supportive mother somewhere behind it. Helping in whatever way she can, even if it is simply believing when no one else does. 

Moms help achieve goals in whatever way they can. Driving kids to soccer practice so they improve and become the star player they dream about. Helping lug instruments back and forth, as if listening to the screeches that constitute practice wasn’t enough. Moms facilitate the dreams of children. Doing her part even though it may consist of errands, spending money, or sitting in the audience. 

Before giving up or going after something, a mom will make sure it is the right choice. She makes sure we have what we need, even if it isn’t what we want. Forgoing purchasing every bag of candy in the grocery store was a good choice, despite the protests. When a kid wants to quit a sport, pierce their ear, or start a new club it is often mom they must convince their reasons for doing so are aligned with their values. If you can’t tell your mom something you want to do or your reasons behind it, it is usually a sign you shouldn’t be doing it. 

Celebrate mothers every day

Mothers – we rely on you every day. It takes a village of mothers all pitching in to help raise a community of children. One day a year to recognize all you do is a meager repayment. To all the moms in my life and yours, have a wonderful Mother’s Day!