All the feelings

Women who love children don’t always get to raise them, or birth them. My mom didn’t birth me, but she mommed me so well. I can think of others in my life, and in the life of my children, who have helped to mother me and my kids in precious and beautiful ways. So what I have to say- I have to think it’s true of all these moms.

I love being a mom. I am amazed by the fact that I get to raise these kids, and that these four fabulous humans call me “mom”. I love that because of them, I get to hang out with lots of other amazing kids. Mostly, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and wonder at the gift of motherhood.

But.

Being a mom brings all the feelings. Worry, guilt, fear- no, terror. Surprise, exhilaration (“Look! They were kind!”) Anger and frustration. Pride and joy. Loss, sorrow. Hope. Fatigue- no, exhaustion. Back to guilt. All. The. Feelings.

And Mother’s Day- it can be hard. It can be wonderful and joyful, and it can be full of sorrow and mourning. So my prayer today is for God’s presence and comfort in the lives of all the moms, regardless of which feelings are carrying the day.

Father, thank you for all the moms- the birth-moms, raising-moms, aunt-moms, friend-moms- all the beautiful women who love your children so well. Pour out your presence and comfort on all of us today. Overwhelm us with the reality of your love, your wisdom, and the strength you provide. May we find joy in being your servants.