Blog

We share Mother’s Day wishes with moms who are part of Families as Allies each year. I spent a few days pondering what to say this year. Being a mom can feel so big, sometimes even overwhelming, because it is so big. It is so big because it is so important. I wasn’t sure of the words.

Then it hit me. I’m a mom, too. Of all the things I am or have been, the two most important things I am or have been are a mom and a wife. So here are my Mother’s Day thoughts from my mom’s heart to yours.

I understand that there are all kinds of moms. Some of us gave birth to our children, some of us adopted them, and some of us are raising children in our extended family. Some of us got picked to be moms by children who found us. Some of us are unofficial moms to the children who need us the most. It still chokes me up when I see a mama take in her great grandchild or watch an extended family member welcome an adolescent from out of state who is finding their way and needs a mama in this state, especially when those mamas also love and welcome birth mamas who may be struggling. Because all of us are mamas, and we want what is best for our children. Thank you for all you give and all you do.

I understand that there are all kinds of Mother’s Days, too. Some of you may have a sweet day with your children, others may have stressful days, and some of you may not be with your children on Mother’s Day. Whatever your Mother’s Day is like, I wish you sweetness, calm moments, and peace of mind.

Some of you have children who have died. My heart and the support of Families as Allies are with all of you. I’ve said this many times, but the words are from the bottom of my heart every time—for those of you who have lost children, I see you, I am with you, I remember your child, I will say your child’s name. Families as Allies will do those things, too. You have my word.

I understand that a day or a card doesn’t define what being a mom means to us. We do. Many of you who are reading this are mamas raising a child who has a disability or other kind of challenge. You probably know what it’s like when everyone has ideas for what you or your child should do, and just how easy all that should be. I know what that’s like.

I also know that you know your children better than anyone and fiercely fight for them even when you’re exhausted. I also know how much it would help if all the advice-givers out there simply asked how they could help, and then did those things.

So please know that on Mother’s Day, and all the other days too, I respect you, support you, and stand beside you and advocate with you for what you want for your children. I’ll do everything I can to ensure Families as Allies does those things, too.

Those are my Mother’s Day thoughts, from one mama to another.