As the mother of three children and step-mother to four children, I am profoundly moved by the sacred responsibility and gift, which motherhood - has been in my personal life. There have been many times, particularly when my own children were toddlers and babies - that I did not completely understand, the full impact of what motherhood, and its far-reaching influences would and could be, on so many lives.
Recently, I’ve been told by a few women friends who now have babies and toddlers of their own that they’ve watched me over the years as I raise my children and have done a few things that I’ve done with their children; such as teaching the children the actual terms for body parts rather than giving them cute names, such as wee wee. Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impact.
Because I have three of my own, I know the importance of spending quality time with each. I’ve always made a point to spend a day here or there with each child individually. When they were younger, I’d take them out of preschool for the day and we’d have lunch and see a movie together. There were also times when I’d get a sitter for the other children, and take one with me to the grocery store. Even the mundane can be impactful in their lives. Just this last week, I spent the day with my daughter, Angelina, and took her to all of the stores she had gift cards for. She got to have a shopping spree with mom. The best compliment I can receive was from her, “This is the best day ever mama! I didn’t know Mondays could be so much fun!”
I have been tossed to and fro by the winds of adversity as a mother, as well - I have been at the heights of joy. Not too much time existing between these events either. With all of these experiences, I have now come to understand - the privilege and power - of motherhood.
Mother is not only a teacher, but even more - she herself, becomes the humblest of student. Mothers often are found - to be kneeling - at the very feet of a wise Father, who is in Heaven.
I will eternally be indebted to my mother and many mother figures in my life, who have taught well - the sacred nature and responsibility of the role of motherhood. Through the years I’ve come to understand through examples and through scripture the importance of the role of women in that plan - I now know, just how important my life's work has been, and will continue to be - through the gift to all women, of - motherhood.
