In Praise of Mothers

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, step-mothers and grandmothers as well as mothers-to-be.  This is an article I wrote some time ago that I would like to post again.

In Praise of Mothers 

By:  Barbara Desmarais
       Parenting and Life Coach

As May is the month we celebrate mothers, I want to dedicate my article this month to mothers to be, mothers of children of all ages, grandmothers and step-mothers. 
  To mothers to be, we raise a toast to you as you prepare to embark on this journey of wonder, excitement, challenges beyond your every expectation and joy that few experiences in life can exceed. 
  

I honour all the mothers of the world who have chosen to stay home and raise their children, despite the financial sacrifices.  You’ve chosen a job that society scarcely recognizes and provides no monetary reward for yet plays a profound role in shaping responsible, loving, fulfilled human beings.
  I honour those who are juggling their role as mother and their paying job outside the home.  My hat goes off to you all as you struggle with the guilt that often plagues the mind of a working mom while trying to pursue a chosen career.  For most of us, working outside the home is a financial necessity and for others we’ve discovered that we make better mothers spending some time away from home.  I support and salute you all!
  

I honour all the single mothers who are trying to be both Mom and Dad and are often living on minimum income.  Your role is difficult and demanding.  You all need our support and praise. Most of you are holding down full time jobs while trying to raise children on your own.  It takes such courage and fortitude. 
  I honour all our mothers and grandmothers who provided us with the skills, guidance, support and love that have helped shape us into the mothers we are today.  We all value your continued support and love as we raise our own children.  We offer gratitude to those who helped give mothers today choices and an identity beyond our role as mother.
  

I honour step-mothers struggling to simultaneously define their role and blend into an existing family.  Some have children of their own and are trying to facilitate the formation of new relationships and others are helping to raise their partner’s children.  Step-mothers have numerous special challenges that need our support.    

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO YOU ALL!