There once was a woman who was betrothed to a man with three children, whom the woman loved very much. Whenever these three children were with their father (which was approximately 40% of their lives), the woman cared for them in a mother-like fashion, as she was lady of the house.
During the time the woman and man were together, the woman often picked them up/dropped them off from school, their mother's home, friends' houses; held birthday parties in their honor; bought and cooked food for them; took them to church services; hosted gatherings for the families and friends; prayed for them daily; helped with laundry; performed most of the household cleaning; attended special school and church events; assisted in homework help; and attended medical appointments. Basically, she supported emotional, physical, and intellectual needs whenever the children were with their father.
Much to the woman's dismay, as Mother's Day approached, and the woman hinted her delight with the potential of a card or present in her honor, it was made clear that only biological mothers would be noted on that special day. Despite her constant desires and actions on behalf of these three children, she was, in fact, not the woman who gave birth to them - and would not be recognized as a mother on such a critical day.
The woman was crushed. And wondered what constitutes a mother. Is it only the act of giving birth? Or should we instead honor women on this day of mothers who influence our lives in any motherly way.
Let us all take a moment to appreciate all women in our lives on Mother's Day. Yes, your mother should receive the most praise and attention of all (unless your mom is a jerk - and even then, cut her some slack for cooking you dinner when she probably didn't feel like it) - but let us not forget those who also add value to our lives through their motherly love and service on our behalf.
*This story is fictional. Any perceived similarities between this story and actual characters are merely coincidence. Or are they....?
So sorry Sarah. But, these kids are young and completely controlled by their own mother. You should be honored on this day and I'm sorry it's not happening. I, for one, honor my aunt on mothers day because She has been more of a mother to me than my biological one has ever been. In fact, I didn't buy my own mom a card th is year. Lol.
ReplyDeleteYou make me smile - thanks gal.
DeleteI don't know if it makes it harder or better that my mom spilled the beans that she has bought me a Mother's Day present and card to honor me as a step-mom this year. Funny that my sweet mom is so kind that she recognizes the energy I put into this relationship, even if others don't. What an ironic day.