Happy Mother’s Day to all mother figures!
It doesn’t matter if you’re biologically a mother, a pet mom, or even a bonus mom. You possess the traits that mothers have. You are essential, as is the love, care, and nurture you provide to the people around you. Since I haven’t birthed a child yet, this Mother’s Day, I’m honoring five mothers who have molded the woman I am today.
Keep reading for five short mom stories based on the fantastic women in my life.
What is Motherhood
Mother’s Day is a celebration of motherhood worldwide. You’ll be celebrating at different times depending on where you are. For example, in the United States, Mother’s Day is today, while in the Dominican Republic, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in May, which falls on May 28th this year. And Dog Mom’s Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of May!
Mothers are valuable because they bring life into the world and take on the responsibility of guiding you through life. Being a mother means protecting your kid, disciplining you, and sometimes delaying or even giving up their dreams and goals. And if you’re in a single-parent household, it also means occasionally missing a school play, trip, or basketball game. Whatever the circumstances, parents, and especially mothers, do the best that they can.
Here are five mothers I’m highlighting this year:
My Mother
We haven’t always had the best relationship; we were estranged for many years off and on. Now that we are on a path to healing, I understand my mom more, and I greatly appreciate all she’s done. As I get to know who my mother is at 65, I understand myself better. My love of heels, lipstick, hair, and spicy attitude all come from her. I may never understand her entire story, but I appreciate all she’s sacrificed for me and my siblings, and I’m grateful she gave me life.
My mother taught me how to be independent and how to prepare for a day at the beach. You never leave the house without rice, beans, some type of meat, and fruit for dessert.
My Sister
My sister is nine years older than me and the best cat mom! She caters to Comet and his picky eating habits. My sister always stepped up to the plate when my mother wasn’t available. She cheered me on at my high school track meets, took me on my first college tour, and helped me pick out my prom and wedding dress. There aren’t enough words to express my love and gratitude for her. For all I know, she may have missed out on things she wanted to do to show up for me.
My Mother-in-Law
Mama V is the poster child for “I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” She is rooted in God’s word and has a big heart. Her door is always open and very flexible for an old-school Caribbean woman. Hanging out with her is always a good time. We laugh and run around the outlets like Thelma and Louise.
Nuni
Nuni is my grandmother through marriage, and she was the sweetest thing. She passed away a few weeks ago, and what I miss most about her are her hugs. Her hugs were warm and made you feel safe. She loved dancing around the kitchen whether or not there was music playing.
She was everyone’s grandmother because she was always there for everyone’s kids in the neighborhood. You are missed but never forgotten, Nuni RIP 🕊️
The Bestie
She’s been in my life for 20+ years and sometimes mothers me, LOL. She tells me when I’m doing the most, laughs at my corny jokes, and accepts me as I am. She’s an amazing single mother to her 12-year-old son, and if you ask her, she’ll tell you that it’s possible to raise a son and not feel guilty that he’s missing something. According to her, we live in a time where you have resources and shouldn’t be looked down upon.
Final Thoughts
From the bottom of my heart, thank you, ladies, for the love, comfort, forgiveness, guidance, and encouragement you have given me. You deserve all the recognition and more. I had a first-class seat watching you ladies in action and know that when it’s my turn, I’ll be ready and know exactly who to turn to for support.
Happy Mother’s Day!