Motherhood United – Acknowledging Our Village

As Mother’s Day is approaching, we will see several posts dedicated to our mothers. We express our greatest sentiments to them – how much we love them and how thankful we are to have them in our lives. But when was the last time we thanked the “acting” mothers of not only our lives, but our children’s lives as well? These are the women that often go unnoticed. Personally, during various seasons of my life, I have encountered women who have guided me and granted wisdom in ways that only a mother can.

Women are magical beings. Mothers are supernatural creatures. They make a way out of situations that seem impossible. Growing up, I can honestly say that I never really took the time to think about all the sacrifices that were being made to ensure my future success. I always just viewed it as the way “things are supposed to be.” In retrospect, there are so many women in my life that have acted as mothers. Some of these women did not have biological children, but they still cared for me as if I was their own.

When I think about the women in my family, I get chills thinking about how they made a way out of so little. My maternal grandmother is the first woman that comes to mind. Migrating from Panama to the United States with little education, she has always made a way for our family. When I feel discouraged or want to give up, I think about the many people she has taken care of and where we would all be if she had given up.

I think about my aunt’s and their ability to nurture me like a mother while also showing up for the turn up, all the while providing a safe space tell my greatest secrets without judgement. The memories that I have of each of them are so significant to my life today. To the Panamanian princess, Tasha Mack, the fashionista, warrior comedian and my poetic soul sister, I say thank you. To my mother-in-law, I am thankful for our relationship, and I continue to appreciate you welcoming me into the family as the daughter you never had.

Becoming a mother has given me a new perspective of not only the mother figures in my life, but also to the women who are my village. I believe the ability to mother children can come from women in all walks of life. These women are extraordinarily special to me because they have loved my children as their own.

To my sister and the only auntie in our crew, there is no one like you. You have granted my children experiences that they may not have received otherwise. Everything that you have ever done is appreciated more than you will ever know.  

To our fairy godmother, the role you have played has been vital to my strength. You are a real one. From the way you keep the girls stylish to your ability to always be down to ride or die as if they were your own, everything you do is admiring.

To our creative godmother, who has always found the most innovative ways to capture their precious moments. You have provided them with love and keepsakes that will forever be treasured.  

To the only babysitter my kids have ever known, you allow me the opportunity to step away and recharge without feeling guilty. 

This Mother’s Day, I challenge us all to think about the women in our lives that have made a difference. To our mom friends on social media that we can have transparent moments with, to our previous teachers that used to get us together when needed, show them all your appreciation. Thank them for the role they have played in your life and your children’s lives.

Being a mother is an anointing from God, and sometimes we confuse it with simply birthing a human being. That is just one step to the process. As women, we are able to give life to one another in ways that support the overall goal of raising and manifesting the next generation of God’s children.  Motherhood is like a puzzle. Many pieces come together by nature, but the masterpiece of the puzzle is beautified by its various shapes. Happy Mother’s Day!