It takes a lot of time, care, and strength to bring a child into this world, and for that, we owe our moms a big thank you. And that’s just for getting us to day one! Thinking about my mom I imagine the hundreds upon hundreds of bottles and changings, the countless “nos” every time we needed redirection, and the thousand times she put us to bed in our jammies. And that’s just the first few years. On top of working 12-hour shifts as a nurse most days. 

So last night, in a wistful moment of remembering yesteryear, Mom said, “Motherhood was the best job I ever had.” Her eyes softened in loving truth, and her embrace felt different, like it did when I was a kid. Close, Loving. And then it dawned on me that it wasn’t her hug that was different—it was the way I received it. 

Those of us who are fortunate to know our mothers and have these special moments—or memories—truly are blessed. Last night I witnessed how a mother’s love has the capacity to grow even stronger over time. What an opportunity to embrace that love while we have it. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, mother figures, and those who are like mothers to all of us!