Happy Mother’s Day to all who have given themselves to paving the road into the future.
In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May a national holiday for honoring mothers’ contributions to society. It’s an incredibly important job with lengthy tenure, long hours, pay outside the material realm, and rewards beyond measure. As a mother, I know the trials and tribulations as well as the immense pride and joy. I didn’t know there would be special angels sent to shed some light on the meaning of true love and incredible faith.
On this day reserved for celebrating, I’d like to recognize a very special group – mothers of special needs children. You are an inspiration, and I marvel at your grace, patience and strength. I’ve realized it’s no coincidence that I encountered you after what I perceived as difficulty with one of my own children. I may have been angry, or glum, and there you were to remind me to put my petty grievances into perspective. You carry a far greater load, and I had no right being the one feeling saddled down. You often pick me up, and today, it’s my turn.
While getting to know some of you, I learned what I knew had to be true. There was a time in your life when acceptance of what had been placed in your hands was difficult. Yet, it’s you, who have taught me about acceptance and true unconditional love. You have all the same hopes and dreams that I have for my children – happiness, success, and societal acceptance.
Your days are filled with more challenges than I’ll see in a lifetime. You handle it all with poise and an inner peace I can’t even begin to understand. Sure, you have bad days, and lose it just like the rest of us, but there’s something in you…you’re fighters and you take it all in stride.
I imagine that the triumphs of your child must be far sweeter than anything I can fathom. How many of you were told, “He/she will never…..” So many of you took that as a challenge, and it’s the greatest act of defiance I’ve ever seen. You’re tenacious in pushing beyond the limits someone else placed on you and your child’s life. Some say you’re in denial. I call it amazing.
Neither you, nor your child chose the fate of a lifelong disability, and you wish people understood that fact. Even in the face of cruelty, exhaustion, and isolation you move forward – grateful to the people who offer support, compassion, or just plain kindness.
Necessity often requires you to be consumed by what must be done each day. I see YOU. That child is precious and surely would not be where they are today had it not been for your perseverance and dedication. Don’t think for one second you’ve become invisible. You’re beautiful inside and out, with a heart of gold, and a halo to match. I’m honored to be a mom alongside true angels on earth, and humbled in your presence.
Happy Mother’s Day, Donna and Jennifer. Thank you for lighting the path so that I could see.
© 2008 Natalie Whatley