Mother’s Day…

Two words that evoke love or dread.

Mother’s Day.

This weekend, mothers of all capacities will be celebrated. There are mothers to be and new moms engulfed in the glow of their newfound status.

There are also mothers mourning the unimaginable loss of children born and unborn.

This will be the second year without my mother. It will also be the first Mother’s Day I spend without the company of my children.

When my husband asked me what I wanted to do for Mother’s Day, my answer was, “lay low.” A day that once brought about fun memories with my kids now makes me keenly aware that Mother’s Day is painful for many.

 Yet, I distinctly remember one thing my mother said to me over twenty years ago.

“I will always be your mother and I will always love you.”

And she did.

The love of a mother and its bonds are strong.

It withstands life’s pains and problems. It allows grace for failure. A mother’s love suffers much. It restores confidence with a word and offers support in silence.

A mother’s love evolves and bends, but it never completely breaks. Maybe that’s why there is no other like a mother.

Celebrate your mother by heeding her wisdom and mothering those in need when you can. You don’t have to literally be a mother to teach, guide and love like one.

And If you’re like me, who would do well to merely reappear when it’s over, I challenge you (and myself) to smile over memories and good times once shared.

Give thanks for the women that love and nurture you.

Mothers, step-mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, sisters, sister-friends and aunts.

Other mothers who listen to and encourage you.

Show them love while you can.

Be gentle.

Be kind.

Be considerate and wise.

Celebrate and give thanks for the great women in your life, past and present.

Even take a moment to celebrate you.

Happy Mother’s Day.

 

By Lilka Finley Raphael

Author, Editor, Gardner, Photographer, Pharmacist

28 comments

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  5. Lovely post. I lost my mother many years ago. Her funeral was just a couple of days before Mother’s Day. When my Uncle wished me happy Mother’s Day I bust into tears, because I no longer had a Mother. That thought stayed with me for a couple more Mother’s Days until I realized I did indeed STILL have a Mother, and she was much more alive than I was. She was in such peace, filled with joy, no pain anymore, and surrounded by many of her family. I still miss my mother, but I no longer mourn her. We lived in different states for several years, and I knew I would see her again on our vacation. That is how I think of her now. I will see her again when we visit in heaven. I hope Mother’s Day will soon again be a day of joy for you as it has become for me. Sending prayers for you Lilka.

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    1. Sheryl, thank you so much for this. I have to often remind myself of the truth in your words. However, this year is better than last year. I will heed your wise words and hopefully next year will be better as well. Thank you for taking time to minister to me with your comment. It is a Godsend. 🙂
      Happy Mother’s Day to you!

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    1. Thanks so much! Enjoy on your end as well. I am grateful for the many women God placed in my life. I’m watching the new moms in my yard (birds) and counting my blessings! B Blessed and Happy Mother’s Day!

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  8. Happy Mother’s Day, Lilka. Maureen and I have been without moms and children in the house for about 8 years now. Our kids are 2,000 miles away so it’s very hard to get together. But know one thing: while your role changes your children will always need their mom! You have a wonderful legacy. And I pray you have a very blessed day!

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    1. Thank you Mel. Your kind words are greatly appreciated. You just made the 1,000 mile distance between me and the oldest look a bit better!
      I am adapting to my changing role in my children’s lives. I have to sometimes remind myself I am at the “suggestion” point of motherhood and “dictates” are long gone. Yet, I am very grateful to see my chicks spreading their wings.
      Enjoy your weekend as well and B Blessed! Thank you for blessing me today! 🙂

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  11. Ahhhh, sweet post.

    I too often have that urge to lay low, Mother’s day not really being my thing. Mothers however, our own, the sacrifices they make, the love they share, they should be celebrated everyday.

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