It has been another difficult year for everyone, and along with front line workers, I think it has been exceptionally stressful for mothers. As well as the daily stresses brought on by the pandemic, many mother's have had to juggle working at home while supervising their children's online learning, or have gone out to work worrying about what they might bring home, and scrambling to find someone to take care of their children. Still other mothers have had to become caregivers for their parents in addition to taking care of their own family. Expectant/new moms have had to go through a very special time in their lives without the full support of family and friends. Senior moms have been affected too, enduring long periods of isolation and loneliness when they have not been able to see their children.
Undoubtedly, the role of mother was stretched to the limit this year, and mother's around the world stepped up and responded with admirable strength, courage, creativity, resilience, and love. It has been an inspiration for me to see mothers, young and old, do what moms do... carry on as best they can, with a smile on their face, a heavy burden in their hearts, and a fierce determination to be there for their families.
It is my sincere hope that next year, Mother's Day will be a day we can get together safely, savoring how special it is to be with one another again, while celebrating the extraordinary beauty, wisdom, and strength that lies within a mother's heart. In the meantime, moms, be kind to yourself, and know you are appreciated and loved far beyond words, for it is your beautiful light, like stars in the night sky, that guide us through these dark times.
A Mother's Light
Keep shining your light,
have faith you'll find a way
through any darkness
and be inspired by love's embrace,
have faith, that within,
strength and wisdom run deep,
be the pillar when you can,
and go easy on yourself
when you cannot,
know that your best
is far better than you think,
and feel proud,
know that you are the reason
your children feel safe and loved,
their shelter in a storm,
and the bright star
that guides them through the difficult times...
With admiration and gratitude, for all those who "mother"
penny bowman
