To My Mother
I never understood that even at my worst
Your unconditional love would survive.
I never understood that all of your questions
Were meant to get to know me.
I never understood that no matter where I was
You desired to simply spend time with me.
I never understood that when you said no
You were trying to protect me.
I never understood that when I wasn’t in your sight
You feared for my safety.
Now that I’m a mother, I understand
Your heart ached from my pain.
I understand
You shared in all of my dreams.
I understand
You created a better world for me.
I understand
Your children are of paramount importance.
I understand
You sacrificed your own desires.
Now that I’m a mother,
I understand
How much I need to thank you.
I hope you all take time today to honor your mother. Forget about Hallmark and write her a letter. Even if she is only with you in spirit, penning a few words will give you a chance to connect with her. As you connect with her, you’ll probably also connect with yourself.
To all of you mothers out there: What understandings do you hold now that you, too, are a mother? What values have endured from your own mother? I hope you all have a wonderful day full of kind words and loving deeds.