Are You My Mother?
As far back as I can remember, I’ve always had a love of reading.
Rather than getting candy or even a small toy when I went to the store with my Mom, I would choose to get a book. This is how I added to my personal library, one book at a time. Oftentimes, I would collect books from a series. Some of my favorites were the tried and true Golden Books, the Illustrated Classics by Moby Books, Sweet Pickles and the I Can Read It All By Myself collection by Dr. Seuss. While I have fond memories of reading these books, there were some that I considered my “favorites”. At the top of that list is the beloved classic, Are You My Mother by P.D. Eastman.
I remember standing a little taller and feeling a little smarter after reading this book on my own for the first time. As I methodically sounded out each word, I became part of a baby bird’s search to find his Mother. Along the way, this baby bird stumbles upon a string of possible candidates, which range from a kitten to a steam shovel. With each one he asks the same probing question, Are you my mother?
As a child, this sweet story further illustrated the loving bond that is instantly forged between a mother and a child. However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to view the additional characters in this story as the mother-figures that help us along our journey. Just as this little bird had a kitten, a hen, a dog, and a cow that were part of his journey, there may be women in our lives that have been a crucial part of our journey.
These women could be members of our family such as a beloved sister, an adored aunt, or a special cousin. And we can’t forget our step-relations, which may include a cherished step-mom or step-sister. However, these bonds can also be found outside our family in the form of a faithful friend, adopted Grandma, trusted co-worker or favorite teacher. The truth is, the nurturing role of women, regardless of the title they hold, adds to our lives in countless ways.
Women who hold such a place in our hearts do so because of some key characteristics, which include:
genuine compassion
active listening
providing emotional support
caring for the physical well-being of others
radiating empathy
fostering growth
As well as an overall loving influence in their relationships with others.
For many parts of the world, Mother’s Day is this weekend. Mother's Day was 1st established in the U.S. in 1908 by Anna Jarvis, as a way to honor her late mother. Today, more than 90 countries join in this world-wide celebration of Motherhood. As we gather to celebrate and honor our precious Mothers, we can also come to see Mother’s Day as an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to all the women who have been mother-figures, providing comfort and support throughout our lives.
For all the mothers and mother-figures, may you have a feel loved and celebrated this Mother's Day.
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