For some people, Mother’s Day is a reminder of the way their mother loves them every day. For others, Mother’s Day is a difficult day because their mother has died, they never met them, they were harmed by their mother, or they are estranged from them.
No matter what your relationship is with your own mother, this day can be an opportunity to show love and gratitude to the people in your life (regardless of gender, age, or family role) that have “mothered” you.
When I became a mother I realized several important truths about mothering:
1. Loving like a mother requires sacrifice.
2. Genuine love is its own reward
3. There are no perfect moms
So how do you love those who have mothered you?
Take time to recognize what they value most (e.g. quality time, meaningful gifts, physical touch, affirmations, acts of service). Remember, the way you receive love may not be the way other’s do. If what the mom in your life values is uncomfortable for you to give, ask yourself the following to ensure that the gift is genuine:
-
Am I giving out of obligation or love?
-
Will I feel resentful if I give this gift?
-
What will this gift cost me (e.g. time, energy, money)?
-
If my gift is not appreciated, will it still be worth giving?
