My mother lives in a nursing facility and I have not seen her for almost 2 months. I have spoken with her on the phone of course and it is always reassuring to hear her voice and know she is being well cared for. Celebrating Mother’s Day brought the longing to see her even closer to home and I am sure that was true for many who are experiencing similar situations.

The good news is that my mother prepared me and my 6 siblings well for times like this. Our mothers know that we are sure to experience situations that don’t turn out the way we expect them to, that create fear, pain and hardship. We have all certainly had our share of that these days. However, Mother’s Day was a good time to reflect – not on those difficulties – but rather gratitude for the things our mothers have taught us – those graces that have prepared us for moments like this.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future.”

I hope this quote resonates for you as you think of your mother or perhaps a woman who has been like a mother to you. I also hope it is a quote we can all embrace as we deal with our present and look to the future. Like mothers, may we each embrace this strength and dignity as gifts of grace from our good and provident God. And may we pay tribute to our mothers and all those who embrace God’s many gifts as an undeniable reason to have hope in our future. Our mothers would certainly want it that way – I know mine does!

A Prayer in Gratitude for Our Mothers

Good and Gentle God,
we pray in gratitude for our mothers and for all the women of theory 
who have joined with you in the wonder of bringing forth new life. 
You who became human through a woman, grant to all mothers the 
courage they need to face the uncertain future that life with 
children always brings.

Give them the strength to live and to be loved in return, not 
perfectly, but humanly.

Give them the faithful support of husband, family and friends 
as they care for the physical and spiritual growth of their 
children.

Give them joy and delight in their children to sustain them 
through the trials of motherhood. Most of all, give them 
the wisdom to turn to you for help when they need it most.
                                                                                    Author unknown