I can vividly recall the moment my three daughters first uttered the word “mama.” With their tiny lips forming the sounds “mm-mmaa mm-mmaa mm-mmaa,” I eagerly awaited that magical moment when they would officially recognize me by this endearing title. It’s astonishing how a single word can evoke such profound feelings.
Mama.
That day marked the beginning of an incredible bond. As they grew, “Mama” evolved into “Mommy.”
Mama was there for every diaper change, every late-night cuddle, and every soothing lullaby that eased them to sleep. Mommy was the one who prepared countless meals (most of which were met with resistance), took them to the library, and cheered them on during their first days of school. With Mommy by their side, they learned to read, ride bikes, and navigate the world, slowly gaining independence while I remained close.
I can’t pinpoint the exact moment, but somewhere along the way, it happened. Perhaps it was during a frantic search for a missing baseball cleat or when my middle child asked for a ride to a friend’s house. Suddenly, I found myself transformed from Mommy to Mom.
I never gave much thought to this transition until recently. My youngest, who is five and a half years younger than his closest sibling, still cherishes the title of “Mommy.” He often surprises me with sweet, spontaneous declarations of love. Yet, I know that soon enough, those heartfelt words will come in the more casual tone of a preteen or with the awkwardness of a teenage boy. I will become Mom to him as well.
That change is on the horizon. The role I play will shift yet again.
As Mommy, I kept him close, ready to meet his every need. Now, as Mom, it’s time for me to take a step back, allowing him to learn, succeed, fail, and grow into his own person. I’ll still be here for support, just standing a little farther back.
Being their Mom is a beautiful experience—an honor I will cherish forever. I will carry the title of Mom for the rest of my life with pride. Yet, a part of me will always long for those days when I was their Mommy.
So for now, when my youngest whispers “I love you, Mommy,” I pause to fully absorb those words. I let them envelop me, nurturing my spirit. I wrap him in a hug and respond, “Mommy loves you too.”
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Summary
The transition from “Mommy” to “Mom” is a poignant phase in every parent’s journey. While both titles represent love and care, the shift marks a significant change in the relationship as children grow more independent. Cherishing the moments when they still call you “Mommy” can be a heartwarming reminder of the bond you share.
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