I find myself reaching out to my mom at least twice a week, usually with the most random queries, convinced she’s the only one with the answers. Whether it’s “Is this ground beef still safe to eat?” or “Do I really need to hand wash this shirt?” or even “What does poison ivy look like again?” I remember a time when losing something meant asking my mom, who always seemed to have a sixth sense for finding misplaced items. Now, as a mother myself, I fully understand the frustration that comes with being the designated “Finder of All Things.” Just the other day, I spent an hour searching for Uni the Unicorn’s magical berry—an hour I’ll never get back.
Our mother-daughter relationship has evolved through the various stages of life. As a child, I was her little helper, whether it was riding bikes or decorating the Christmas tree. In my bratty preteen years, she kept my softball uniform spotless while I invited a gaggle of friends over unannounced, boosting her grocery bill. As a know-it-all teenager, I grumbled about her rules, even as I benefited from her unwavering support. It wasn’t until college that I realized how much I missed her homemade mashed potatoes and her constant laundry services. Now in my 30s, I lean on her guidance more than ever.
I can’t count the number of frantic calls I’ve made in the last few years that prompted her to rush over and help. When my son injured his chin on the shower rail, I called her while I held him wrapped in a towel, waiting for her expert opinion on whether a trip to the hospital was necessary. She even volunteered to take my daughter, who was sitting in a chilly bath, confused about why her mom was in tears.
A year earlier, she sped to my house when I called to say my daughter had cut her nose on a can of corn while I was cooking dinner. (I promise, I’m not neglectful; my kids are just a bit clumsy, and I’m not great with blood.) She was also the first person I called when the doctor informed me that my newborn might need to be transferred to the ICU. Without hesitation, she returned to the hospital, spending the day comforting the baby and reassuring me that everything would be alright. And it was—moms have an uncanny ability to just know. Having a loving grandmother around is a blessing, especially when she brings Band-Aids for various scrapes and treats like popsicles and 7-Up for her grandkids, who are undoubtedly a bit spoiled.
It wasn’t until I became a mother that I truly grasped the intensity of the role. I often wondered why my mom was ready for bed by 9 PM, thinking she was just a buzzkill. Now I understand she was drained from juggling work, cleaning, cooking, and carpooling. Her day started long before we woke up, and she’s maintained that schedule for over three decades, with my youngest brother still in high school. I now realize that moms don’t really get “sick days” because laundry doesn’t fold itself, and kids seem to think they need to eat every day.
The influence of a mother is truly immeasurable. Her actions shape your habits, and her voice becomes your inner dialogue. Have you ever caught yourself saying something your mother used to say? I often tell my kids I want to “squeeze their guts out.” The first time I said it, my husband looked shocked until I explained that it means I love them so much I want to give them a big hug.
A mother is a guiding light and a source of calm in life’s storms. She can be your biggest supporter and your most prudent advisor. She can mend a broken heart with a shopping trip or a marathon of reality TV and homemade popcorn slathered in butter. A mother sews up prom dresses and pays for wedding gowns. She bakes your favorite birthday cake (chocolate fudge) and stocks up on diet soda when you come over for dinner. She knows all your secrets and has witnessed both your highs and lows, yet her love remains steadfast. Over the years, she wipes your tears (and sometimes sheds a few of her own) and holds the unique distinction of having changed both your diapers and those of your children.
So, today, I take a moment to reflect on my blessings and express gratitude to all the mothers who selflessly prioritize their children’s needs. Thank you for staying up late to assist with homework and rising early to prepare breakfast. Thank you for balancing boardroom meetings with cheerleading at games. Thank you for skipping showers to make it to gymnastics practice. A special shoutout to single mothers who take on the dual role of both mom and dad, bearing the full weight of parenthood—I admire your resilience and strength. To those who embrace motherhood through marriage with grace, thank you for demonstrating that love transcends bloodlines. And to those who welcome children into their lives without carrying them in their wombs, you exemplify that a mother’s love knows no bounds. For the moms watching over us from above, we seek your guidance in our hearts; your absence is felt every day. Even though we long to hear your voice one more time, we know you’re preparing our favorite cake for our eventual reunion and watching over our little ones.
Lastly, to my own mom, thank you for setting the benchmark for what a mother should be and for loving my children as if they were your own. I even forgive you for loading them up with cookies and sweet tea before sending them home. I recognize karmic justice when I see it. If you’re curious about more parenting insights, check out this blog post for additional resources. And if you’re considering an at-home insemination kit, Cryobaby is a reputable online retailer worth exploring. For anyone looking to learn more about pregnancy and infertility, the CDC provides excellent information.
In summary, a mother’s influence is profound and far-reaching—shaping our lives in ways we often don’t realize until we step into the role ourselves.
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