Mother's Day Reflections

I have been thinking about Mother's Day.  It is a day with which I have a love-hate relationship.For example, it is hard to go to church where I am likely to hear about ideal women who are the paragon of motherhood.  I don't think I actually know any of these perfect women but I find myself making comparisons anyway, and coming up short and somehow being reminded of all my impefections as a mother.  I know I have them.  My children know it too. I just don't like to dredge them up. 

In recent years, I find Mother's Day morning dull.  Now that Stephen is grown and flown I do not lie in bed pretending to be sleeping in while waiting for my breakast in bed.  That was always a fun tradition.  Interesting breakfasts, too.  Layden, who is thoughtful, and also good at breakfasts, makes sure to prepare something yummy for me, but it isn't the same.  And, along with this whole empty nest thing, I find myself a bit envious of women who have children and/or grandchildren nearby.  The military has stationed us in some wonderful places, but not usually near family.

But then, I get to open a box.  Inside I find a card, a book, and a "magic" flower that blooms at the touch of a button.  All of a sudden I am delighted!  I am sure that I am not the only mother to get these items for Mother's Day.  Doesn't matter though - thousands may have gotten them but mine are the BEST!! Why?  Because MY children and MY grandchildren sent them.  They made the effort and took the time to remember me.  And when they called me, they told me that they love me.  What  a WONDERFUL blessing.

I am fortunate to have had the experience of being a mother.  Not everyone gets this chance, and so this day can be a hard one.  Some mothers have lost their children, either physically or emotionally.  My heart aches for them even in the midst of my joy.  Some mothers are in the middle of the hard parts of parenting.  Been there.  Hang on - there will always be ups and downs. 

So, like I said - love-hate.  But I wouldn't trade being a Mom for anything.  Wouldn't trade my book or my card or my flower either.  They are sitting on my desk right by my picture frame, just like my family thought they would.  Thanks!