Week 11. Mothers Day
A tribute to my mothers – strength, sacrifice, and support.
Mother’s Day in the UK is more than just a day for flowers and greeting cards, it is a moment to pause and reflect on the immeasurable impact that mothers and maternal figures have on our lives, a celebration of motherhood, honouring the selfless love, sacrifices, and strength of the women who shape our world (Parker, 1996).
For many, this day is a time of joyful gratitude, a chance to express appreciation for the unwavering support and kindness of the women who raised us. For others, it may be a moment of reflection, remembering those who are no longer with us but whose influence remains deeply embedded in our hearts (Smart, 1992).
Motherhood comes in many forms,
biological mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, aunts, and even mentors who take on a nurturing role. These figures provide guidance, comfort, and wisdom, often without seeking recognition or reward (Diduck, 2012). Their impact extends beyond the home, shaping future generations, strengthening communities, and driving change in society (Waldfogel, 2006).
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, lets take a moment to consider the incredible women who inspire, support, and uplift us. This is an acknowledgment of their resilience, a tribute to their sacrifices, and a heartfelt thank-you.
The Role of Mothers in Society
Mothers have long been the cornerstone of families and communities, playing a pivotal role in shaping future generations. While the essence of motherhood remains rooted in nurturing, guidance, and support, its role has evolved over time. Today many mothers balance career aspirations, family responsibilities, and personal growth, often navigating complex societal expectations.
Statistical Insights on the Impact of Mothers
The contribution of mothers to both the home and the economy is profound. According to a Pew Research Centre (2021) study, approximately 70% of mothers in the UK participate in the workforce while also managing childcare responsibilities. The rise of working mothers highlights not only their economic contribution but also the evolving nature of family structures.
A study by the Harvard Centre on the Developing Child (2021) found that children raised with supportive and engaged maternal figures are more likely to excel academically, develop strong emotional intelligence, and form healthier social relationships. This highlights the fundamental importance of maternal involvement in early childhood development and lifelong well-being.
Historically, motherhood was primarily associated with child-rearing and household management. However, in modern society, mothers increasingly juggle multiple roles, as professionals, caregivers, educators, and community leaders. The rise of flexible working arrangements and parental leave policies has allowed for greater participation in both work and family life. Nevertheless, challenges remain, as many mothers now face a "double shift", where they carry the bulk of domestic responsibilities alongside their professional obligations (Hochschild & Machung, 2012).
Despite these challenges, their ability to balance personal aspirations with the well-being of their families demonstrates a remarkable strength that deserves recognition and appreciation.
Personal Reflections
For me, Mother’s Day is a time of gratitude, reflection, and appreciation, and I find myself feeling incredibly fortunate to have not just one, but two remarkable mothers in my life. Each of them has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today, and their constant love and support have been a source of strength throughout my life.
My biological mother has been my biggest fan since day one. Through every challenge, every milestone, and every moment of uncertainty, she has stood by me without hesitation. She has been my one constant, never faltering, always believing in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. The lyrics to Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion resonate with me because they encapsulate exactly what she has been,
my protector, my guiding light, and the foundation upon which I have built my life. To me, she is the very definition of home.
Equally, my stepmother has been an extraordinary presence in my life. Her love and support have never wavered, and even in the smallest gestures, her kindness and care shine through. To this day, she continues to buy me an advent calendar every Christmas. She still ensures that I have that small piece of childhood magic to look forward to each year. It is in these seemingly simple but deeply meaningful acts that her unconditional support and love are so clearly reflected. It takes a special person to relentlessly love someone else’s child, but this woman has never failed me.
Both of these incredible women have stood beside me, cheering me on, offering their continuous love, wisdom, and encouragement in ways too numerous to count. As I reflect on everything they have ever done and continue to do for me, I can only hope to make them both proud one day.
This Mother’s Day, I thank them both, from the bottom of my heart for their unwavering commitment, their endless patience, and their profound influence on my life.
I am truly blessed.
“There is no way to be a perfect mother, but a million ways to be a good one. ”
This Mother’s Day, I want to take a moment to honour all the incredible women who dedicate their lives, whether in big ways or small, to nurturing, guiding, and shaping the next generation. Motherhood is not defined by biology alone, but by love, sacrifice, and unending support.
To biological mothers, who carry, bring life into this world, and dedicate themselves to raising their children with love and care, thank you. Your selflessness, patience, and endless sacrifices often go unnoticed, but they shape futures and build strong, resilient individuals.
To stepmothers, who step into a child's life and love them as their own, thank you. Your role may come with challenges, but your love and devotion are just as powerful and essential. You are proof that family is built not just by blood, but by the heart.
To grandmothers, who pass down wisdom, traditions, and unconditional love, thank you. You are the storytellers, the keepers of family history, and the source of comfort in times of need. Your presence is a gift that spans generations.
To foster mothers, adoptive mothers, and guardians, who open their hearts and homes to children in need, thank you. Your compassion and generosity change lives, offering children safety, stability, and a place to call home.
To single mothers, who balance multiple roles and make daily sacrifices to ensure their children are loved, cared for, and given every opportunity, thank you. Your strength, resilience, and determination are inspiring, and the love you give is immeasurable.
To working mothers, who juggle careers while raising children, thank you. Your ability to provide, nurture, and guide is nothing short of extraordinary, and your hard work does not go unnoticed.
To mothers of children with special needs, who show incredible patience, advocacy, and endless love, thank you. Your devotion and tireless efforts ensure that your children receive the care, support, and encouragement they deserve.
To mothers who are no longer with us, whose love and lessons continue to shape our lives, thank you. Though you may not be here physically, your impact lives on in the hearts and minds of those you nurtured.
To all women who take on a motherly role, whether as aunts, sisters, teachers, mentors, or friends, thank you. The love, guidance, and encouragement you provide make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.
As I reflect on my own journey, I know that I would not have made it this far without the unwavering love, patience, and support of my own mothers. Thank you, your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed,
Today, we celebrate all the wonderful mothers and maternal figures who dedicate themselves to raising, loving, and supporting children. The world is a better place because of you.
Happy Mother’s Day! 💐
References
Diduck, A. (2012). Law’s Families. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Parker, R. (1996). Mother Love, Mother Hate: The Power of Maternal Ambivalence. New York: Basic Books.
Smart, C. (1992). Regulating Motherhood: Historical Essays on Marriage, Motherhood and Sexuality. London: Routledge.
Waldfogel, J. (2006). What Children Need. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Harvard Center on the Developing Child (2021). How early experiences shape lifelong health and learning. [Online] Available at: https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/videos/how-early-childhood-experiences-affect-lifelong-health-and-learning/
(Hochschild & Machung, 2012).- Hochschild, A. R., & Machung, A. (2012). The Second Shift: Working Families and the Revolution at Home. Penguin Books.
Pew Research Centre (2021) - Pew Research Center (2021). Parenting in America: Attitudes, trends, and challenges for working mothers. [Online] Available at: https://www.pewresearch.org
