Mother’s Day is a day that can evoke many different emotions for people: love, hate, happiness, hate, joy, anger. Depending on the relationship you have, or had, with your mom will dictate which type of emotion comes to mind when you think about her. Mother’s Day is either a day for you to show her your love and appreciation, or a day for you to work through your emotions of grief of a relationship not there; whether through death, absence, or apathy. Mother’s Day is also a hard one for those who cannot have children, or who simply don’t have children and wonder what it would be like to be a mom.

Wherever you find your lot in life, you need to remember this: it’s not just about mom!

No mom can be a mom without a dad. Take time today to not only think about your mom, but remember the men who made the women mothers. You are the woman you are today because of the man who made you a mom. If you have a great relationship with the father of your child, make sure you thank him today. Should your relationship be rocky or you have no idea where this man is now, acknowledge that you are forever tied to him because of this child. Pray for him. Pray for forgiveness and healing in both of your lives.

No mom can be a mom without a child. Your children define you as a mom. Never forget this. You are shaping the very lives in your home; the next generation. Do not take this task lightly. There will be days and hours that seem longer than years, but this, too, shall pass. Pray for your children. They will be grown and gone before you blink. Pray for guidance and direction for you as you lead and guide them. Pray, also, for their future decisions, their future spouses, and for their friends because you are not the only person with influence in their lives.

No mom can survive without the help from others: usually those without kids! Seriously, I thank God for people like this in my life. God has provided your services and presence in the lives of mothers to keep us sane. You might be depressed you can’t have children, but please realize there are some moms who are depressed because they do have children! We are tired and worn some times and you provide us the strength to continue! Thank you.

See, it’s not all about mom! We are all in this together: moms, dads, children, friends. No one can make this life’s journey alone. Embrace the relationships God has provided for you. Don’t have a great relationship with your parents or kids? Pray. Seek counseling. You don’t need to waste any more time on this baggage. It’s time to move on and understand God called us to forgive and love.

Mother’s Day is a great reminder to all of us to thank, appreciate, forgive, and love those around us. Embrace the life God gave to you and don’t take your parents, spouses, children and friends for granted!

Happy Mother’s Day!

© 2015 Susan M. Sims

Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net / Stuart Miles