Dear Mom,
“Because I feel that in the Heavens above, the angels whispering to one another, can find among their burning terms of love, None so devotional as that of Mother.” -Edgar Allen Poe
written by Landie Canfield
Dear Mom,
When I was little, my greatest hope and biggest dream was to be a mother. I never thought about what kind of mom I would be— whether I would be lenient or strict, patient or cross. I figured I’d be like you. I was desperate for a baby to eskimo kiss and to cuddle, a toddler to jump in muddy puddles with. I imagined brushing and braiding my little girl’s hair and whipping frisbees down the beach with my boys. I didn’t wonder if I would be adventurous, or be content to play for long hours inside. It never occurred to me to doubt my abilities or willingness to persevere. I figured I’d be like you. Sleepless nights as a new mom, sleepless nights thereafter; soothing hot foreheads or helping to hide from the thunder. Enduring hot dates and frat parties til dawn, holding my breath. I figured I could do it all. I figured I’d be like you. I remember practicing being Mommy with many pretty dollies named Precious and Pollie and Jane. Motherhood was easy! I’d make my baby a bed, a small cozy nest, and tuck her in beside me. We would read books and laugh and snuggle. She’d cry (for any number of reasons) and I would rock her and tell her it was OK. I was just like you.
I never knew the reality of motherhood would be full of revelation, transformation and awe, from the searing pain of childbirth to the dawning intensity of love, and the tenderness that arrives alongside it like a full-on romance. How it never ceases, not for a moment, it’s steadfast and full of joy. It is as timeless as each child is ageless— no matter the years that pass, with the accompanying thrill of each milestone and every passing stage from youth to adulthood. From wee babe to teen, and then suddenly a grown up to admire….and yet that child is always your baby.
Mom. Thanks for making it feel easy even when it wasn’t, from the very beginning until now and for every second in between. For the connection, compassion and helping me feel in control. For the mother you were, the mom you are and the love you gave me so generously. Thank you for you— I was right all along. I am just like you.
Sincerely, yours
We know every mom deserves to treat herself this Mother’s Day, so we put together a printable PDF for mom to stick on the door while soaking in a luxurious bath, catching up on her favorite reality TV shows or taking a much deserved nap! Print it out, have a laugh and enjoy YOUR day, mama!
