Happy Mother's Day!

Got any big plans for this Mother's Day? I actually don't know at this point if I do or not. But, I've done a lot of thinking about Mother's Day in years past. Can I share with you my thoughts?

For many mothers, this Sunday will come and go with little to no distinction from any other Sunday. It can feel very discouraging to have a holiday set apart for you go unnoticed. (Although, prior to the 1900s women did not even celebrate Mother's Day; they were completely content, unaware they were missing anything... because they weren't.) No matter if your Mother's Day will feel full or empty, I want to encourage you...

Even if no one notices the passion and diligence with which you nurture your loved ones...
Even if your children do not realize the investment you are making in them...
Even if you grow tired, doing the same tasks over and over again...
Even if no one else around you knows it's hard work!
Or, even if you are duly thanked and appreciated...

Take joy in your mothering. Treasure in your heart the thought that you are accomplishing something monumentally worthwhile. Be glad for all the little things you are able to do for your dear ones, the everyday moments you are able to spend with your family. Shower them with love. Joyfully!

We all feel bolstered by affirmation. We feel validated when someone celebrates us. But I'd like to encourage you to take joy in what you do everyday.

When your days are long and you still have to prepare supper...

When you spend abundant time preparing food only to have to clean up again...

When you sacrifice what you would prefer to do in order to carefully plan nutritious food for your family...

In all these daily efforts, take joy. That is an odd combination of words... but there is joy in daily serving your family. Take it!

Health begins with mom. In the majority of families, I think it really does. It begins with mom's hard work and commitment. What we do is wonderfully meaningful. And there is deep joy in cherishing that thought.

Mother's Day will come and go... fully celebrated or not. But come the following Monday, approach your "duties" with joy. Joy in knowing that you are bestowing long term blessings upon your family.

 Happy Mother's Day to you,