Thanks Mom

We celebrated Mothers Day Saturday at my house. As I helped my son make gifts to give his grandmothers and as I shopped for Mothers Day cards for my mom and mother-in-law this week I was struck by how moms are each so unique in how they relate to their children and in what they give of themselves through the years.

I found a card this year that I thought was just perfect for my mom. It said on the cover "Thanks to the mom who had to do it all." That may not sound like a very "romantic" or charming sentiment, but that card made my mom cry. My mom did have to "do it all." There really was no other parent present in my life. My mom was the mom- and the dad. She was the nurturer- and the provider. She had to work three jobs in order to provide for us and still somehow she was ready to lend a listening ear when I needed her to do that. Still she kept our house spotless. Still she had a smile on her face, and still- even without a father present, my mom made sure I never felt cheated. My mom was "enough."

I always appreciated my mom. I was always aware of her sacrifice- but as I have gotten older and have my own family I am absolutely awestruck by how she did it all. I now know how much time and emotional and physical energy children take- not to mention financial resources, and to think that my mother did it alone... Thanks Mom.

This Mothers Day I also am reminded of all the moms out there who have children with special needs- many who do not talk, and may never talk. Being a mom is a tough job- rewarding, but tough. Being responsible for another human being is a blessing and is such an important and critical job. As moms it is nice to get little "assurances" along the way letting us know we are doing OK. Many times those assurances come from our children- an "I love you" or a simple "Thanks mom" on occasion. Some children cannot express those sentiments in that way. Most children can let you know how they are feeling or what they need- but some cannot. Most children can tell you what happened at school today- but some cannot. Most children can tell you what that other child said to them that hurt their feelings- but some cannot. Most children can tell you when they are hungry, when they need to use the bathroom, when they need a hug, or why they are sad or angry, but some cannot. Most children can say "I love you mom" or "Happy Mothers Day" but some cannot. Amazingly, there are moms out there who just "get it." They have learned to "read" their children and anticipate their needs, while still trying to allow their children to grow in their independence. These moms deserve a special "Happy Mothers Day."

As moms, we just do the best we can and many times we doubt ourselves and the jobs we have done or are doing in raising our children. None of us are perfect, but I want to say Happy Mothers Day to all the moms out there who do their best every day to show love to their children. Whether your child has the words to tell you or not, I just know they appreciate you. Happy Mothers Day.