Gratitude for Mom

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day.

The media has been using this day to get people to book vacations, to order flowers, and to go and eat out at the local restaurants. They all mean well – they are all looking to help increase their business during a time that has been rough for many.

One group of people that are really affected by this season and all the media reminders are those who no longer have their Mom around. For many people, this is a rough and tough time. With constant reminders that others are lucky enough to have their Mom still here with them, some people feel a bit of an ache in their heart every time one of those commercials comes on TV.

Most people don’t even think about this until they lose their Mom. Over time it may get a little easier. And then… the barrage  of reminders start coming in April!

Do you fall into that category? Is Mother’s Day ‘Season’ tough on you? If it is, try to view the day in another light than usual. Try not to be sad that your Mom is no longer here with you. Instead, remind yourself of the good times you had together. Think about the activities that you did, recall the fun events that put a smile on your face. Think about how she helped raise you and became an integral part of your life.

Even if all of the times were not all ‘perfect’ (are they ever?) you can still find some goodness about your Mom. If nothing else, without your Mom, you would not be here. On the other extreme, you had a wonderful loving relationship. Your Mom may have been your best friend. Your compatriot. Your bosom buddy. The closer the relationship, the great the hardship.

As Dr. Seuss said, ““Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” Smile for the time you spent together. Smile for the time that happened together with Mom.

You can still celebrate your Mom even if she is not here.

That is what I plan on doing Mother’s Day.

I love you, Mom.

Be Well.