You are More

 At some point in our lives we all face tremendous challenges that push us to our limits emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. We are often left feeling less than. Although each journey is unique, how we respond during a crisis is a reflection of our common vulnerabilities and strengths, but more importantly, the powerful human spirit that weaves through every one of our hearts.

One of my greatest challenges in life was healing my physical, and emotional bodies after three recurrences of melanoma. I learned a great deal on my journey, and had the honour and privilege through a Canadian Cancer peer support program to help others as well. It was through this program, the support from my own mentors, and mentoring others since, that I learned a very inspiring truth. We are far more than we think. We are stronger, more courageous, more resilient, and more loved.

Although none of us have identical experiences, it seems at some point during a crisis we grow physically tired and disheartened and often feel like giving up. We grieve what we have lost, we long for normal to return. We are thrown in an emotional vortex that we and our caretakers can only honor and allow to take it's course. Unfortunately, in the midst of our emotional struggles and pain we often forget that we are not our diagnosis, our situations, our bodies, or our thoughts. We forget that we are powerful, miraculous spiritual beings.

In a world that too often is divisive, it's refreshing to remember that we are all more alike than than we are different. Our journeys are not black and white. Like a roller coaster, our lives are filled with ups and downs and plateaus which come seasoned with a myriad of emotions. Whether it be tremendous joy or heart wrenching sorrow it is important that we help each other to walk through what we must while still remembering our innate strengths and inner power. Let's be there for one another, and when we have forgotten, with respect and compassion, let's lovingly remind each other; we are more!

You are More

I may not fully know
 your burden

or the pain
that sits in your heart,
but I will walk beside you
and I will know
that you are more...

When the time is right,
I will whisper the truth...
you
are more resilient,
more courageous,
more powerful,
and more loved
than you know...

pbowman

With thanks to my brother in law,  for the inspired reminder.

Being a Mother

Miracle Unfolding

Motherhood brings with it the greatest joys we'll ever experience, but it also gives birth to our greatest fears, insecurities and life lessons. The idea that once you hold your newborn in your arms you are changed forever was not a cliche for me. In fact, the transformation began earlier during the pregnancies, when I, like most mothers, felt a strong bond with my unborn children and a love I could not describe. Holding them was the opportunity to affirm that love and to experience it on a much deeper level. Not to steal a line from the Grinch, but I think being a mom definitely makes your heart grow several sizes! A fairly important upgrade, since motherhood requires tremendous love, sacrifice and humility.

So many of the challenges associated with being a mother can be attributed to the fact that our adorable babies do not come with manuals... and even though our hearts are bigger, we dive into an unknown realm sleep deprived, idealistic, and overly protective. From the moment my girls were born, I felt the responsibility that comes with caring for them. I wanted to be a good mom, and prepare them to be loving, responsible, happy adults.( All this, without a manual) I knew raising children would not be easy, and that I would make mistakes, but I did not realize it would be so difficult to get the information and support all parents desperately need. Interesting, that our government requires us to pass a test to demonstrate we can drive a car, yet we do not have any programs in place to help new parents prepare for the most important role of their lives... I think it would be very beneficial if there were ongoing parenting classes and resources offered ( perhaps even mandatory) to assist parents along the most important journey of their lives. 

I have been a parent for over thirty years now, my children, now adults have created wonderful lives for themselves, so I suppose their dad and I would get a passing grade. I still feel their pain, take pride in their accomplishments, give free advice ( occasionally worth listening to) and want the best for them. No matter their age, or mine, I imagine I will always feel a protective instinct, love them unconditionally and wonder at times if I am doing the right thing. 

After all these years, I also wonder why on Mother's day, our children give presents to us, for they are the gift. To give life to someone, to watch a miracle unfold and have the opportunity to love and be loved unconditionally, is beautiful and life altering. Being a mom has made me a better person, it has enriched my life beyond expectations, it has challenged me, inspired my soul, and yes, made my heart grow bigger. Therefore, I cannot end this without thanking my children for their love, support, acceptance, and forgiveness. I have learned along the way, made plenty of mistakes, and had my share of victories, but most importantly I have realized what a blessing it is to be on this journey with them. 

 Being a mother is a gift that inspires great compassion in our hearts, and the spiritual wisdom and light of our souls. As they have grown, so have I, amidst the joy, angst, fear, pride, and overwhelming love. I just hope my children know, that when Mother's day rolls around, any present they give me is just icing on the cake, because since the day they were born, they are, and always will be, the greatest gift I have ever received.

 

For My Children

I feel blessed
 to be part of 
 a miracle unfolding...

please know
you are wonderful

just the way you are

 your strengths,

and your flaws,

create the perfect
 evolving you...

know that

and you bring joy

and light
 and love 
into the world
with your unique
 and oh so beautiful 
 hearts and souls..

love you more than words...