It is the verb-mothers who deserve honor today. These women who - with or without children of their own - care deeply and pray tearfully and give graciously and invest selflessly in the lives of those around.
For example ...
The woman who invited me as a young girl on adventures and made the most delicious picnic lunches imaginable.
The woman who opened her heart and home to me when I was an immature, slightly obnoxious pre-teen.
The woman who listens as I process my crazy thoughts.
The woman who hosts huge lake days for my family with sunscreen and floaties and several sleeves of buttery crackers.
The woman who offers my kids yard work, the chance to earn some money, and loads of affirmation.
The woman who sends mobile updates and photos of my kid's game to me across town, because she's where I [also] need to be.
The woman who works the hardest and cheers the loudest for the ball team.
The woman who teaches my kids.
The woman who listens to their [super important] stories.
The woman who tells them their mom is doing the best she knows how, and encourages them toward honor.
The woman who makes much of them when my attention is spread too thin.
These nurturing, protective women indeed have children firmly placed within their care. To us, they are friends, teachers, aunts, and sisters who share the spirit of maternity.
And so on this Mother's Day weekend, let's broaden our span of attention and make a suitable fuss about (and send a thank-you to) these prized and precious souls!
