Mother's Day and the Gift of Motherhood.

The month of May is here! This means we get to celebrate our mothers, the real superheroes in our lives and the Month of Our Lady. Some may have already chosen a gift; some others might be trying to be sneaky to find out what that special woman in their lives desires to be surprised with. Mother's day should be every day, but in general, Momma's in the world appreciate that this day exists. A day where we get to show our appreciation for the dedication, hard work and love our Mothers continue to pour out on us. 

Motherhood does not exclude women who have not had children. The heart of a woman is conditioned to nurture, receive, and heal. Many extend their appreciation to women who have played the role of a mother in their lives. 

As Catholics, we also celebrate Our Blessed Mother, Mary. We are invited to focus our hearts on meditating on the Queen of Heaven, God's Mother, during this month. We reflect on the mystery of her motherhood and mission. As we grow in virtue, the desire to imitate her tender, humble, forgiving, and loving heart increases. We pray the rosary more and challenge ourselves to learn new prayers, like the Angelus, the Memorare, or the Magnificat. 

Our Blessed Mother is the Mother of the Universal Church, and she helps us throughout our journey to stay the course and focus on her Son, Jesus Christ. Just like a mother desiring for her children to be safe, healthy, and faithful to their beliefs. Our Blessed Mother intercedes for us before her Son and God to hear our prayers. She is the Mother of mothers! A gift from God. 

The Church appreciates the gift of Motherhood. 

Saint John Paul II wrote a letter to women, where he acknowledges the gift of Motherhood. 

I recommend reading the letter, but here is an excerpt of it directed to mothers. 

 "Thank you, women, who are mothers! You have sheltered human beings within yourselves in a unique experience of joy and travail. This experience makes you become God's smile upon the newborn child, the one who guides your child's first steps, who helps it to grow, and who is the anchor as the child makes its way along the journey of life."

Our Blessed Mother is raised as the role model of Queen and Mother for us, disciples of Jesus Christ. John Paul continues to share that the entire community of believers call upon her as their "Queen." For her, "to reign" is to serve! Her service is "to reign"! The reign of Mary is to be at the service of her children in the world. It is precisely service and selflessness that defines authentic motherhood. She reaches out to invite in and nurture life. 

St. John Paul II had a special relationship with the Mother of God; from the moment he lost his mom at a young age, his dad suggested that he embrace Mary as his own. 

This unique relationship he had with the Mother of God was made very present through his episcopal motto "Totus Tuus"; totally yours. He totally belonged to Our Blessed Mother and her loving intercession. It goes without saying how remarkable his papacy was for our Church. 

A mother has the power to give life and sustain that life forever. Our Mothers get to know us so deeply that words are not necessary for them to know exactly what we need. We can lean on our mothers for everything. 

To end on a silly note… Nothing is lost until your mom can't find it! 

Have a Blessed & Happy Mother's Day!