Mike wrote this shortly after Mother’s Day 2009
The older I get, the more I realize how deep the celebration of Mother’s Day runs.
For me, as a son, it was just a chance to tell Mom that I’m glad she was my Mom (and to rack up a few Brownie Points!)
But as I talk to more and more women through the years, I begin to see how the idea of Motherhood is full of both joy and pain. Of feelings of success and of failure. Of heart-rendering regrets, and unequaled happiness.
To those who are Moms – may God keep your children safe from harm. And may he grant you the wisdom and strength and humor you will throughout the rest of your lives.
To those who wanted to be a Mom, but never could, may your heart find fullfillment and peace as you go though life and see the need for nourishment present in everyone you meet.
For those of you who have lost a child, whether before or after birth, may your find strength to accept the greatest pain a mother can suffer, and the resilience to continue on through life bravely.
For those of you have loved a mother and have already lost her here on earth, may her spirit and memory remain with you throughout the years, and guide you through your life.
For those of you who have a difficuult relationship with your mother, may you be given the opportunity to make peace in your heart.
For those of you who are having a difficult time “mothering”, may you be given guidence, and perserverance to continue your efforts to improve.
For all of you, I offer my admiration, and gratitude, and my prayers. Without your patience and kindness and caring and giving, this world would be a rougher place. May you be blessed always, all ways, as my brother Nick would say!
Perhaps more than anything God has given to the world, Moms are the greatest gift.