Growing up, I never quite understood my mother’s lukewarm feelings toward Mother’s Day. As a child, what could be better than a whole day dedicated to celebrating your mom? It was like getting a second birthday! But when I asked why she didn’t seem enamored with the holiday, her response surprised me.
“I love being a mother more than anything,” she assured me. “But all the talk about how great mothers are makes me feel inadequate sometimes, like I’m failing in some way.” I was blown away – my mom was one of the best! How could she possibly feel like she was falling short?
In hindsight, I realize Mother’s Day did serve one good purpose for her. It prompted introspection about her role and how she could be an even better guide for us kids. That self-reflection led to wise decisions that helped shape who I am today.
When I became a mom myself, I started to understand where she was coming from. In the era of social media “wonder moms” and endless streams of Pinterest-perfect family moments, it’s easy to feel like you’re not measuring up. I’ve had to remind myself not to compare my own journey to those curated highlights.
If I would never want my amazing mother to feel less-than for even a second, then I need to extend that same grace to myself. We’re all doing the best we can while navigating one of life’s most rewarding and challenging roles.
This Mother’s Day, I want to celebrate all the unstoppable moms and mother figures out there – whether you gave birth or stepped up in other ways to nurture the children around you. You are shaping little minds, hearts and resilient problem-solvers each day through your love and guidance.
There will always be time later to analyze how we can do better. But for now, let’s simply honor the incredible work you’re already doing. You are the unpaid, unsung heroes making a quiet but profound impact every single day.
To all the moms who wipe tears, lay awake at night worrying, make sacrifices, and unconditionally show up – you are amazing. To those who don’t have children of their own but nurture them through mentorship, teaching, volunteering and kindness – you are a mother in so many ways that matter.
This weekend is for you. Soak it in, celebrate yourself, and let that unstoppable force of a mother’s love pour over you. You’ve more than earned it.
