Mama!

Four weeks after Easter this year brings us to Mother's Day. Mother's Day is an interesting holiday because we can all relate to it in one way or another. Maybe you are a mom, or maybe you want to be a mom. But one thing is for sure: we ALL had a mom.

For most of us, this Sunday will be a sweet day, a day to thank the woman in your life who raised and nurtured you. It may also be the day when others thank you for the nurturing that you do. But I was reminded last Saturday that there are some who struggle with Mother's Day, and those of you who fall into that category are particularly on my heart this week.

There are those who were not always blessed by the mothers they had. Sadly, some mothers are just not equipped to raise children, and for those who suffered abuse or neglect, Mother's Day can seem hollow at best, and a mockery at worst. If you are one who had a rocky upbringing, you are an inspiration to those around you - did you know that? The fact that you are here, and are doing your best to live a life of meaning and purpose is a testament to your strength of character. And if you know someone who is a survivor, lift her up!

Then there are mothers who have lost a child. I cannot think of a greater sorrow than to lay a beloved child to rest. If you have been through this, you must be the most precious of mothers in the sight of God. One of the first 'grown-up' books I ever read was called "Angel Unaware" by Dale Evans. She and husband Roy had adopted a little girl from Korea, whom they named Debbie. Sadly, Debbie was killed in a bus crash in her teens. Pouring out her grief on the page, Dale Evans wrote a delightful tribute to her beautiful daughter and in doing so, also took a journey of healing through her faith which also inspired million of readers.

You may be someone who has lost your mother. If so, Mother's Day can be a sad day for you. Perhaps it can be a day to think on her and remember the good times. Share a story with your children or grandchildren about her, or do something she liked. Those are precious memories for you, and family history for the younger members of your clan. They will appreciate knowing about their relative, and can then pass the memories of your mother on to the next generation. What better tribute to your mother than to have her seem alive and vibrant to her descendants.

I mentioned that last Saturday I was reminded of those who struggle with Mother's Day.. I was at a friend's Saturday church service and the pastor closed with a beautiful prayer for those who are suffering from infertility. I have friends in this category, and it never occurred to me before how hard Mother's Day must be for someone longing for a child. I cannot pretend to know the depth of your hurt, but the Bible gives us an idea as it tells the story of Hannah in I Samuel, chapter 1: Hannah is praying so hard and with such emotion that the priest thinks her drunk! She tells him, "...I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief" My prayer for you is that, like Hannah, the Lord grant what you have asked of Him; and if not, that the reason be shown to you and that you can begin to find peace.

There is someone in your life who would love to hear from you on Mother's Day. It might be your mama - call her! take her to lunch, dinner! get the kids dressed without asking her for help! It might be a friend, whose children are scattered all over the country - maybe you can be a surrogate daughter/son today. Or maybe you just need to get clear of the 'mama drama' this year - that's ok, too. Surround yourself with people who love you on every stage of this journey called life and have a blessed Sunday. If you are someone who revels in Mother's Day celebrations, take just a moment and say a prayer for those who are not as comfortable with the holiday. Lifting up our sisters is a great way to honor all of God's Daughters.

Smiles and Blessings,
Sharon

P.S. If you know a single mom, give her an EXTRA BIG HUG!! And, if you're so inclined, a free night of babysitting...