Childless Mothers

My mom and I had always been in a love-hate relationship of sorts.

All the things I love, she hated.  And vice versa.

So I thought long and hard on my post this Mother's Day.

If you'd known me long enough, you'd know that another woman had a strong influence on me growing up. And that is my tita Minda, who really took care of us and shared the "mothering" responsibility with my mom.  More so I think, because my mom had always been a career woman.

She made me realize that motherhood is not all about giving birth.  It's making sure that children and those who need help and affection are taken cared off.

So I dedicate this post to all "motherly" women out there who are taking care of their families - as an aunt, as an eldest sister, a stepmom or simply as a motherly influence on children around her.  These childless mothers deserve more than one day to be praised for all their efforts.

Remember, Mother Theresa did not have any children.  But she is a mother in every sense on the word.

Even the woman who founded Mother's day, Anna Jarvis is childless but is a devoted daughter to her mom.

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And to my mom, know that I didn't forget you:

Mom,

Stop worrying.  Stop fretting.  And most of all, always remember that we do not need any looking after because you raised us to know what is right and best for us.

Trust that you have done your best in making us the decent and responsible adults you've always wanted us to be.

Now relax and reap the benefits of your efforts.