Mothers' Day . . .

My mother once pointed out to me that once I had children, I would be a mother for the rest of my life.  Sure they would grow up, have their own families, even their own grandchildren, but I would always be their mother.  Motherhood isn't such a bad deal; you always have something to feel a part of.  When they're young, you are part of their very existence--food, clothing, shelter, emotional support, encouragement, teaching, directing, and sometimes, punishing.  As they get older, they want your input less, but need it more.  That's when motherhood becomes a thankless job, but there are still moments when you feel a true part of their lives--the award at school, the drive home after the winning goal scored, the quiet times in the car when you share a discussion of a frustrating event/day/friend.  Leaving home, their reliance on you seems to be severed, but you get the occasional call for your biscuit or bread recipe, a question about health insurance, or a longer discussion about career/college choices.  They marry and add new children to your family, and eventually, grandchildren.  As I sit here remembering the Mothers' Days of the past, I remember the homemade cards, breakfasts in bed, "It's Mothers' Day, let Mom choose the . . . " I'm so thankful I've been able to be a mother, to have the opportunity of being a part of something so wonderful as my children's lives.