A good mother gives their child the foundation to live life with an open, loving heart.
Mother Teresa comes to mind. She taught patience, empathy, generosity, selflessness. She was fierce, loyal, and strong. Above all, she exuded love.
I am blessed to know many wonderful mothers. My own mother is a true gem and the epitome of grace. My grandmother taught my mother optimism, resilience, wisdom, and kindness to all. All these qualities help us in our relationships with others and with ourselves. How many times in our lives are we required to be soft, loving, and flexible like a bamboo plant? A mother endures a nine-month pregnancy, childbirth, and raising her children to adulthood. She teaches us so much by example. Ideally, this love is not only for one’s own children but for all of humanity and nature.
I have many friends with children who are also motherly towards me. This love has greatly blessed my life, and I hope to pass it on to others.
A psychiatrist I respect told me he was taught in medical school that the most important medicine is the love of a mother. I believe this love empowers us to have a chance at facing life's inevitable difficulties.
Society is greatly served by people - male or female - who possess these qualities of motherhood. The best men I know have these traits as well.
The current pandemic has created many challenges for people. But it is the love we have shown for each other that is getting us through it as a human family. We have all had to mother one another, and ourselves. And we are better for it.
Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms out there. And to those who strive to put love into the world.