Mother’s Day is often a time of celebration but it can also be a time of grief and heartache. Especially with the season we’re all currently finding ourselves in. Unable to see loved ones, to hug them, to touch them, to just be near one another. Sometimes we experience great big feelings all at the same time. Love, joy, sadness, and anger. It weighs differently on all of us because of our experiences, our situations, and even our losses.
When my mom passed away a few years ago I had to figure out how to live in a world without her. This was uncharted territory for me and I had no guide. Nothing I could say or do was going to bring her back and that stung for a very long time. I felt guilty when my children showered me with love and excitement because a part of me still felt that void.
How could I celebrate when she wasn’t here anymore?
Over the years, I learned that I would need to make room for the sadness to live alongside the joy. Because pushing it away seemed unfair to both her and me. I needed to accept that I could celebrate and mourn at the same time.
I’m saying this because I know we’re all going through something right now.
Despite the varying degrees and levels, our heartaches are real. Whether it be a difficult loss, in whatever form that may be, and feeling as though your entire world has been turned upside down. I hear you and I see you, friend. There’s no way for me to know exactly what you’re struggling with but I need you to know that you’re amazing. You’re strong. And you’re worthy to be celebrated no matter what stage of life you’re in.
Sometimes our expectations don’t always match our reality, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be celebrated for our accomplishments, our milestones, and our victories. Big, small, and everything in between.
Today and every day, I encourage you to take the moments you need to get through the days but never sell yourself short. It takes amazing courage to brave whatever circumstances you’re in and I hope you’ll give yourself the same grace and love you give to so many around you.
This Mother’s Day may look and feel different but that’s okay!
Mold it into whatever you need it to be. Cozy and safe, loud and joyful, or quiet and reflective. However you choose to spend the day, know that you’re allowed to feel all of those feelings, no matter what they are! And open your heart to the love you so deserve!
From my heart to yours,
Happy Mother’s Day!
