We are nearing one of the most celebrated days of the year ~ Mother’s Day ~ the day on which, according to the dictionary, is the “day mothers are given cards and presents.” This made me chuckle a bit. It showed me that so many words in the dictionary are defined deeply by our social and cultural mores.
The dictionary defines “mother” as: title for a nun (n); title for woman of advanced years (n); female parent (n); woman acting as parent (n); give birth to a baby (v)
These, of course, are all true as labels – according to our socio-cultural norms – but they do not necessarily embody the essence of who a mother is for the many.
A few more definitions approach a better sense of “mother” with: originator (n); protector (n); bring something about (v); take care of somebody with tenderness (v)
Now we are getting somewhere!
I know that not everyone has been taken care of with tenderness nor protected by the one in their lives, who was called Mother. I also know that many have been protected and cared for with tenderness by one who was not known to them as Mother.
I invite you to consider this:
A true mother may or may not have birthed you. A true mother may never have birthed a child at all. A true mother may or may not be female.
A true mother can “protect” and “care for with tenderness” many things: a child, a grandchild, a friend’s child, a foster child, an adopted child, an elder, an elder parent, animal friends, the sick, the Earth, as well as “originate” and “bring about” to share profoundly with others, like art forms.
When a human being unconditionally offers love, nurturance, protection and acceptance, with patience and compassion, s/he is expressing the heart essence of motherhood.
Who has given this to you in your lifetime? To whom have you given this in your lifetime?
Let’s celebrate Mother’s Day this year by acknowledging ALL (self included) who have expressed Motherhood by giving of themselves to others (or a cause) with a true mother’s heart.
Happy Mother’s Day & Many Blessings to All,
Plynn
Plynn Gutman 