Celebrating Moms on Mother's Day

There is something to be said for celebrating moms on Mother's Day. It wasn't until I became a mom that I really understood what it means to be one (no kidding!). I remember holding my baby #1 for the first time and this overwhelming, sacrificial love came over me. I haven't been the same since.

From the time of pregnancy, to caring for my little ones, to picking up toys, and tending to sickies, there is so much a mother does that goes unseen. No crowd is standing there cheering you on. You don't get trophies when your kid's school project costs you time and money. There isn't acceptable excuses when it comes to putting dinner on the table and having the cabinets well-stocked with snacks. Being a mom is the most rewarding and probably draining job in the world. That's why I think it's important we practice celebrating moms this Mother's Day.

Most often, we rush to the store for last minute cards and flowers. Sigh out of obligation. Kids rant, "Why isn't there a Kid's Day?!" Gifts are handed off without second thought. Mother's Day comes once a year. (Does every other mom agree that it should be everyday?)! Making a nice gesture with cards, flowers, and other gifts doesn't necessarily fulfill or relay our gratitude for a whole year's worth of care and attention.

I once read a poem called "Never Enough" about moms that I really enjoyed:

Sometimes I know the words to say to give thanks for all you've done,
but then they fly up and away as quickly as they come.

How could I possibly thank you enough, the one who makes me whole,
the one to whom I owe my life, the forming of my soul.

The one who tucked me in at night, the one who stopped my crying,
the one who was the expert at picking up when I was lying.

The one who saw me off to school and spent sad days alone,
yet magically produced a smile as soon as I came home.

The one who makes such sacrifices to always put me first,
who lets me test my broken wings, in spite of how it hurts.

Who paints the world a rainbow when it's filled with broken dreams,
who explains it all so clearly when nothing is what it seems.

Are there really any words for this, I find this question tough,
anything I want to say just doesn't seem enough.

What way is there to thank you for your heart, your sweat, your tears,
for ten thousand things you've done for oh so many years.

For changing with me as I changed, accepting all my flaws,
not loving 'cause you had to, but loving just because.

For never giving up on me when your wits had reached its end,
for always being proud of me, for being my best friend.

And so I come to realize, the only way to say,
the only thank you that's enough is clear in just one way.

Look at me before you see what I've become, do you see yourself in me,
the job that you have done?

All your hopes and all your dreams, the strength that no one sees,
a transfer over many years, your best was to pass me.

Thank you for the gifts you give, for everything you do,
but thank you mommy most of all for making dreams come true."

Being a mom, I can now comprehend the all-encompassing job it really is. It is so important for us to celebrate our moms on Mother's Day. Mother's Day should really mark a day where we do buy flowers and write sweet cards to lavish on our moms who gave us life, but making sure they are heartfelt and meaningful. Take her to lunch or plan a spa day. Mail her favorite candle or perfume. As sons and daughters, this day should remind us to honor and celebrate these special women in our lives. And as parents, it should encourage us to teach our children to see the importance in the day.

I also understand that some of us don't have our moms with us, or maybe the relationship is broken. Unfortunately, I hear of severed relationships more and more that make Mother's Day a difficult day. I would encourage you to spend the day taking care of yourself. Do something special with friends. Love the ones who call you mom. Even though some stories aren't easy or ideal, we have a heavenly Father who can comfort our hearts.

How are you celebrating moms on Mother's Day?