Mother’s Day is this Sunday. It is a day that we set aside to recognize the women in our lives who have traversed that most sacred and precious rite of passage that we call motherhood.
There is no single person who has such an effect on the development of a child as does a mother. Tenderness, understanding, nurturing, encouraging and giving are just some of the words that describe the qualities of a mother. But when I think of what a mother is, I am necessarily drawn to the word ‘sacrifice’.
The mantle of motherhood is gilded with sacrifice. From the very start, she biologically provides nourishment from her own body, sharing her resources with the new life that God has created within. Once the child is born, she will continue in that posture, the other things in her life becoming less important, including her comfort. Over the next several years, she will continually deny herself sleep, serenity, food, finances, health, time and consideration just to ensure that her child receives theirs. Most of the time, she will ask for nothing in return.
She beams brilliantly at each accomplishment of her child, no matter how small. She whispers sincere prayers into bedtime ears that are laden with purpose and blessing. She introduces her child to God—even when Dad is not interested—because, on a deep and instinctive level, she knows what is at stake. She intuitively senses a bad day at school or harsh words said. She can fix it simply by listening and offering a hug.
Oh, there is power in that hug. It reduces the world and its trouble to square one. It centers and edifies. It cannot be duplicated or replaced.
Even at the end of life’s journey, her most urgent concern is likely for the happiness and well-being of her children and grandchildren. She is a Godly force of nature that binds families together with genuine, unconditional love and selfless action. To that end, she has weathered many trials and made many difficult decisions. Her legacy is unsearchable; her importance is incalculable.
One day seems hardly enough.
Yet, this Sunday, she will receive gifts of macaroni hearts on construction paper with the enthusiasm of one who has won the lottery. Perhaps a breakfast of cold toast and runny eggs will be made for her. It will be the best breakfast she has ever had, because it was in her honor. And while she is eating that breakfast, her thoughts will still be for the child who made it. And if she is gifted a day at the spa, she will probably feel guilty for not being available, though she will enjoy the attention.
This Mother’s Day, let us consider honoring the mothers in our lives. Sure, gift giving is good—especially if it is something she actually wants. However, a little authentic acknowledgement goes a long way. Whatever we decide to do, if it is done with genuine appreciation, it will be enough. And, of course, praying for her and with her is important.
A good thing has been done when a mother has been duly recognized for her daily sacrifice. The only thing we could do better is to do it more often.
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