As I observe the unwavering dedication of my hens - chickens, ducks, and turkeys, meticulously preparing their nests for the impending incubation of their eggs, I am struck by admiration for what is the definition of grit within motherhood. Over the next 28 to 35 days, I will see these feathered mothers sitting on their nests, come rain or shine, without faltering in their commitment to nurture new life. Their instinctual resolve mirrors the profound essence of motherhood, embodying a strength that is truly remarkable.
In celebration of Mother's Day, it is fitting to pay homage to the epitome of selflessness and unconditional love. Mothers are the pillars of strength. To all the moms and grandmas out there, this is an ode to you - the unsung heroes who shape our worlds with grace, resilience, integrity. and tenacity.
Grace: Loving Unconditionally. I am sure we all can think of a time in our life when we were less than the perfect child. My teenage years are defined by pushing boundaries. My mother is grace personified. Her unconditional love during that time to show me forgiveness when I least deserved it, taught me that you can't judge people when they are at their worst. You have to love them through it. At family gatherings now, I will watch her as she looks at her grown children and her grandchildren. There is a certain light in her eye and a glow in her cheeks that is hard to describe. Love is radiating off of her. She gives the best hugs too. It could be that a hug from your Mom is the best assurance of love and acceptance. It's home. It's unconditional love.
Resilience: Overcoming Challenges. One of my nephews was born premature. We are lucky that he is alive. We call him a miracle. The untold story is of my sister in law. Her resilience during that time as she navigated her own well-being while being there for her son is nothing short of miraculous as well. As my nephew has grown, she has instilled resiliency in him. One of his first character traits that she taught him is that he is tough. I remember when he was 3, accidentally stumbling while playing, but then jumping right back up and saying "I'm ok. I'm tough." His toughness is his Mom's resilience. He will overcome challenges because she does.
Integrity: Building Trust. I have another Sister in Law who embodies this trait. When I visit, I love to listen to her have conversaitons with my niece. My niece is one of the most intelligent, little humans that I have ever encountered. She is curious and can ask great questions. My sister in law navigates these flawlessly. She never lies and explains things in a way to make her daughter feel heard and understood. She never dismisses the question, but patiently holds the line of truth and transparency that fuels her daughter's thirst for knowledge. My niece will accomplish great things because her Mom guides with Integrity.
Tenacity: Doing what is Hard. I had a conversation with a single mom last week. She works with me. She was sharing that this job is 1 of 3. She takes a Sunday off every other week. She works 13 days in a row to get 1 day off. I asked her how she was managing. Her response was "I do whatever I need to do for my kids. They are worth it." She said it with such steel in her voice that I knew she meant it. She is the breathing definition of Tenacity. Determined to do what is necessary to give her kids the best life. I wish there was a way that I could make it easier for her, but I can't help but admire her for her strength to do what is hard to make it easier for her kids.
GRIT: Grace, Resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity. All of these women share these traits as they are united in the state of being a Mother. On this special day, let us reflect on the immeasurable impact our mothers and grandmothers have had on our lives. Their sacrifices, their unwavering support, and their unconditional love shape us into the individuals we are today. To all the moms out there, we salute you. Happy Mother's Day!
Oh my word! Your Mother’s Day article was amazing, insightful, inspiring and uplifting!! And I would say that you personify grit, tenacity, integrity, and grace!! And you mother, teach, coach and lead by example, to all the young women who are coming up behind you!! Bravo, Hannah!!