Mother's Day Isn't Always Easy

This Sunday is Mother's Day. Growing up, Mother's  Day was about trying to surprise mom with breakfast already made. It was never a surprise though. I mean 6 kids trying to cook in the kitchen isn't a quiet thing. Of course, we would pull our money together to get her a card and a gift. She appreciated our efforts. She especially liked it when we cleaned up the dishes. :) 

Now, I am a mother. Last year I didn't feel like one because my arms were empty. My beautiful girls had been gone for about 6 weeks at this point. I didn't feel like a mom. It was a very hard day for me. All I wanted was to hold my girls again. This year, I have a precious baby girl. I feel like a mom because my arms are full.  Little One is changing my life in so many ways. I love being her mom! I count it an honor and a privilege to take care of her. 

However, I can't help but to think about the other women out there this year whose arms are empty. I have many friends who are wanting desperately to have a baby. And for whatever reason, it is taking a long time. My hearts hurt for them. The ache of an empty womb can be crushing. Every month disappointment. I hate to see them in pain. Then there are the moms who are adopting and waiting to bring their babies home. Even though they have a promise of a baby, it doesn't help make the waiting any easier. Their hearts are torn. Their minds are constantly in two places at once. The tears they shed are for a child who they haven't even met yet, but has completely stolen their hearts. 

Then there is the foster mom. The mom who is loving a child that isn't her own and will probably have to give back at some point. The pain of loving and letting go is overwhelming at times. They often wonder if they are making any difference at all. Their children may not even acknowledge them as "mom". They are often forgotten as the children are thinking of their biological mom, which is understandable. They are "for now" moms, but moms none the less. 

To all the moms out there, whatever stage or place you are in, God sees your heart. He hears your cry. Even though there are times you feel completely forgotten, He hasn't forgotten you. He isn't being cruel and intentionally causing pain by withholding a child. I don't know why it isn't happening as easily as you would like. I do know that God is a God of love. His love for you is great. When you are exhausted and at your whits end, He is your strength and your rock. He will give you the wisdom you need to raise your child. If you are questioning if you should have taken a certain child because all you see are your limitations in helping them, God isn't limited by your abilities to help your child. He will equip you to be the parent you need to be. 

This Sunday, as you honor your mom, don't forget about those women that are waiting or grieving. It is not a joyous day for all. Give them a hug. Send a text message. Let them know that they are thought of and loved on this day. Many of us are/have been/will be in these shoes. Let's show them love and grace.