Reflections of a Mama

The life of a mother is one of sacrifice and naked, unwavering devotion. If you are a mama, play the role of a mama or were raised by a mama, you have felt the rippling effect that mothers have on every generation that comes and goes. A huge part of my identity is defined by my role as a mother. It is the most intimidating and rewarding endeavor I have encountered in this life. I am challenged and honored to be the mama of two beautiful, lively kids.

I feel a common bond with fellow mothers who, like me, regard this mission with the utmost humility and passion. No matter how different our beliefs, mothers have kindred hearts that speak a common language. Mamas know how it feels to hold a tiny hand and guide a child through life's vivid spectrum of joy and pain. Cheering, protecting and disciplining, we make every effort to prepare our children for the turbulence of life. "Always do this...Never do that...Pay Attention...Keep your head up...Watch your back....Mama knows!" We've lived it, felt it, and don't want our babies to have to go through it. We make decisions we never knew would be so hard to make, while second-guessing and praying for direction at every turn.

The passage of time is so apparent in every moment as I watch my children grow, and I try to commit every stage of their development to my memory. My daughter's 3 year old munchkin voice, my son's 7 year old mini-muscular frame, their sloppy kisses and incessant questions. How they look to me for comfort, assurance and safety. I watch them in awe as they sleep, walk, laugh and play. And as they develop their personalities and gifts, I feel overwhelmed with a joy that comes from places in my heart that I never knew existed before becoming a mom. Children are drawn to this joy that comes from the same source of Love inside of us that created them. Who knew that my children would teach me to understand the meaning of unconditional love? I learn so much from them. I watch my kids and smile from everywhere as they shine their love light so effortlessly! When children are born, all they know is Love and Truth because these are the seeds that bring forth the miracle of life. They are not given the spirit of fear; all they know is eternal love. Their eyes sparkle with an awareness that adults often forget due to the unpredictable nature of the world we live in:

"The Light of God surrounds us
The Love of God enfolds us
The Power of God protects us
The Presence of God watches over us
Wherever we are, God is
And all is well."

They remind me of how it felt to be a child and feel eternally protected and safe. Somewhere along the way, I lost that feeling. As my children teach me how to love, I make my feeble attempt to teach them to stay ingrained in this Truth no matter what they encounter in this life. I don't have to have all the answers. Ironically, my kids are my greatest teachers.