Mormon Momma

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and as a woman without children I have thought about this day a lot. In years past I’ve felt hostile, sad, indifferent and even a bit glad on Mother’s Day. As my husband and I have gone through the ups and downs of fertility issues we’ve had to come to terms with our childlessness; and I’ve had to learn how to put on my best party face when a humble deacon comes to give me a wilting flower that will be dead before the day is over and piece of really bad candy. I am finally to the point where I can say ‘thank you’ and not dissolve into tears. But for many women, this might not be the case. Many childless women, single sisters and even sisters who might have less than ideal family situations might feel the weight of Mother’s Day and consider this holiday burdensome, or even a waste of their time. They might not feel worthy to be recognized for the good that they do, which is a shame.

I’ve written before, and I believe very strongly that all women, no matter what their state can consider themselves mothers. There are many women who have touched my life, who were not my mom, and I am thankful for their influence in my life. There are even times when my own sweet mother does not feel that she has done a good job in regard to her family. Again, this is a shame, because despite her failings, I wouldn’t trade my mom for another. She’s taught me many things. Her insight and spiritual promptings have helped me more times that I can even count, and her ability to keep our family going throughout the years and throughout our trials is phenomenal.

My hope this Mother’s Day is that while we celebrate moms and the women in our lives, that we look around and see who might be hurting, or struggling for whatever reason. Find that sister and tell her how she has impacted your life, or that you love and appreciate her. I know I have appreciated those kinds of experiences, and I know they will too.