Happy Mother’s Day to all those who are moms, will soon be moms, have tried to be moms, or are currently trying to be moms. Until I was much older and mature, I didn’t realize the sheer heights needed to climb in order to just become a mother. Then comes the work after birth. I only recently became an uncle, having no children of my own yet. See the author of this piece? Sam! Uncle Sam. How very patriotic. Until I had actually witnessed the struggles and joys of pregnancy and birth, I truly had no real appreciation for mothers, regardless of the cards or flowers I bought for my own mom. Having glimpsed only a fraction of this process, the strength and determination of my sister has sparked a newfound respect, admiration, and love for my own mother.
When I was a kid, I loved to be outside. I would ride around on my Razor scooter while my mom worked in the garden. Regardless of the weather or temperature, the garden needed to be maintained! That secret garden show wasn’t going to win itself! I have so many fond memories of my kid-brain going “what on Earth is she doing?” while I watched her plant, move, or reevaluate the layout of her garden. I had (and probably have to some extent) no real knowledge of plants, trees, or flowers until I actually finally started to pay close attention to what she was doing. I know her favorites are Lilies, specifically Casablanca (just don’t let the orange pollen get on your clothes! Lesson learned), with “Lily” even becoming a nickname of hers. My favorite was always lavender. Too cool. It smells good, is a nice shade of purple, and can ward away bugs and pests. Never a downside to me. Just don’t ask me of the struggles of baking a lavender cake.
Every time I see or smell it, I think of her in an instant. Every house I had lived in with her, whether it be in Florida or New England, had lavender. Now, she claims to have partially done this because I always liked it, but I know the garden shows were the real prize!
Anyways, having now witnessed the tolls of motherhood, I am so distraught over all the lame cards I got my mom. She deserves so much more than a giant “M” cut-out I made with printer paper. Moms go through a lot before and after pregnancy and then they have at least 18~ years of support (add a little more for our economic woes) only for us to take off to school or to work. Unfortunately, I cannot always be there to tell her “thank you” or “I love you” but this Mother’s Day, I will be helping her spread 6 yards of mulch. Or maybe I’ll do it while I let her straw boss. It’s the least I can do.
Happy Mother’s Day to all and thank you for all you do and sacrifice to bring love and joy to your kiddos. It doesn’t go unnoticed.
By Sam Bishop