Ode to Mama
A Mother’s Love
Mother…. The title that nothing in life could prepare you for except sheer experience. Although I’ve now been a mom for 6 beautiful years, I still wonder to myself how exactly do moms do it? The getting you ready for school, preparing multiple meals a day, running to practices and doctor’s appointments to name a few of the jobs that come along with the title. I thought I was doing something when I was balancing being a mom while working and in school full-time but this last year through the pandemic truly gave me a run for my money. The challenges that arose, the changes that required adjustment, it was enough to make one pull their hair out. I’ll never forget all of the times my mom and grandma would say, “you don’t understand now but you will when you’re older and have your own.” Whew. Let’s just say that no lies were told.
While out running errands yesterday with my daughter, the radio station had people calling in to share their favorite thing about their mom. It wasn’t until that moment that I realized I’ve never asked my child that question and well she is old enough now to be able to express herself so why not? Part of it could be because I was afraid of what could be said. I mean of course I think I’m a good mom but who else would be able to gauge that other than your greatest reflection themselves? As moms, we already are super critical of ourselves and battle with our own insecurities and shortcomings. The infamous and tireless questions of – Am I doing enough? Am I making a positive impact? Do they understand the why? I mean it’s as if we forget that we are imperfect beings who deserve grace as well. As if we’re not learning and unlearning as we’re teaching. I don’t know about anybody else but this has been the toughest variation of multitasking I’ve ever had to do.
As I prompted to ask my daughter the question she followed with, “ummm I like how you’re nice to me, I like how you always talk with me, and give me hugs” and honestly, I was shocked. Was this really the child that I originally had no plan for telling me that their favorite thing about me is the way I love them??? While I’m still trying to whole-heartedly love all of my broken parts? Not to be shallow but children are usually fond of the tangible things that they receive before actually growing up to see and understand the underrated forms of love given to them. Some days you’re either mom the fun police or the best mom in the world who buys me everything, at least that’s how I perceived their thought process. You can only hope that you are not defined by your off days – because they do and will happen. To know that through it all, my intentions are felt and my character is seen is all of the reaffirmation I needed.
Today, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, may we remember that God will always equip us for what he’s called us to. He knew who we were when he formed us in our mother’s womb so no more second-guessing mama. The many seen and unseen sacrifices we make on a daily will count for something. The way we steward the gift of life birthed from us will be felt by shaping the next world changers. Keep fighting to become the best legacy you can pass down but also acknowledge that you are already enough. We make the world go round – A mother’s work is never done and her love is eternal.
You are appreciated
You are celebrated
You are valued
We honor all that you do and all that you are,
Happy Mother’s Day <3