My Thoughts This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day has always been a difficult day for me. When I was a kid, I was envious of all of my friends who had a traditional mother to celebrate. As a young adult, Mother’s Day became even more painful as I watched all of my friends celebrate motherhood when infertility convinced me that I wasn’t worthy enough to do the same. This year, Mother’s Day is incredibly bittersweet, but I am overwhelmed with with joy and thankfulness.

I am celebrating Mother’s Day for the first time without the woman who raised me. I prayerfully began asking God to ease this grief, so I could enjoy the blessings of Mother’s Day. Amazingly, I awoke this morning with an overwhelming peace.

Although Nanny is in heaven, I know she is always with me. Her presence is more than a memory; I see her in the things I do and the things I say. Her greatest dream was to see me become a mother, and I’m so happy she was able to spend time with Hayley before God called her Home.

On this Mother’s Day, I am more thankful for all of the great examples of mothers in my life than ever before. There are many mother figures who have personally influenced me and shaped me into the woman I am today. I know God placed each of them in my life for a very special purpose. These women are so dear to me and will always hold a special place in my heart. I am surrounded by strong women who unconditionally love their families, and I strive daily to be as selfless as each of them.

Motherhood is a blessing that I often feel I don’t deserve. God has placed an immense amount of responsibility on me to raise a teenager, but I know that He has given me the best tools and strongest support system to lead a Godly example for our daughter.

Being a mother is one of the hardest, most rewarding jobs that I have ever been blessed with, and I never want to take my greatest responsibility for granted.

Thankfully, God has placed many examples of dedicated and faithful mothers in my life. There are so many days that my heart aches because I want to call Nanny and tell her something about Hayley or ask her for advice. But, even though I can’t do that, I know I am surrounded by a strong support system.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the mothers who made me want to be a mother. Thank you for your love, dedication, and sacrifice. Thank you for investing your time and loving me even though you didn’t have to. I pray that I am able to bless my daughter’s life as much as you have all blessed mine.