Dear Mama
My thoughts often drift to her. It’s been six years since my mother departed this life. Around this time of the year, I find myself being reminded of her in some of the strangest ways. I laugh sometimes when I drive by a Popeyes, as random as that sounds. We used to love eating their waffle chicken together; that was our thing. We’d laugh and talk about life over that greasy bag of food. Those memories keep her spirit alive in my heart. Her love, after all this time, can still be felt even in her absence. That’s the kind of impact you have on the lives around you.
Today, I write this piece in honor of all mothers. It’s my greatest hope that these words speak to you. May you also smile and feel the sincerity of these words as they jump from the page and into your heart. There’s nothing quite like your love. Please don’t ever underestimate the power of your words. Even if they appear to fall on deaf ears, trust me, your children hear you. Your wisdom, love, and insight will be felt for generations to come. May you receive your flowers here and now. Although every day should be your day, we understand how life can get in the way. Enjoy all of the attention, you deserve it.
Don’t lose heart if you’re in a strange place with your children. Relationships can be challenging, especially during the adolescent stages. I didn’t always see eye to eye with my mother. Trust me, they see and hear you. They know you mean well when you offer your advice. Your tough love at the moment might feel annoying, but keep speaking into their lives and pushing them to be great. One day, they’ll find out, you actually knew what you were talking about. I was hard-headed too! If you haven’t heard thank you in a while, I’m thanking you for all that you do.
Life can be painful and unpredictable. I wish it weren’t the case, but it’s the nature of this life. I’m going to address something tough. Some of our parents had issues that prevented them from being what we needed. If you’ve been estranged from your mother due to toxicity, and you feel it’s best to keep your distance, please don’t let anyone make you feel bad for guarding your heart. As much as you may love your mother, being in contact with her will be detrimental to your mental health and self-esteem. Perhaps you’ve tried over and over again to mend the situation to no avail. As much as it hurts, you’ve got to keep protecting yourself and I’m proud of you for doing what you have to do. Nobody deserves to be mistreated.
Lastly, if you’ve just recently lost your mother, I extend my deepest condolences to you. Be kind to yourself today as you continue the journey of healing. I know the pain well; I understand the gaping hole a mother’s absence leaves. It’s a different kind of pain. Hang in there today. You’re loved.
Happy Mother’s Day to you.