A Few Thoughts on Mother's Day...

Mother's Day is great. There is so much that moms do that they don't get recognized for. So many things that go unnoticed until she isn't there anymore or can't do all those things for a time.

Honestly, it drives me crazy when people take something and feel the need to make it about something else. I guess I just don't understand why people can't just leave well enough alone.

But, today is not one of those days.

There are too many women whose hearts break on this day.

Too many who had to say goodbye to their mom too soon.

Too many who desperately desire to carry and have and love their own baby and haven't had that yet.

Too many who have come to terms with the fact that they'll never have a baby and so they pour into other peoples' kids, via adoption, foster care, mentorship, etc.

Too many who have their own kids and still pour into other peoples' kids.

Too many who have even just lived authentic, caring, generous lives that touch another person deeply.

I've been blessed. Aside from the Little Miss' current seizures, I have been blessed with two beautiful healthy children and a loving, faithful husband. My kids cry when he leaves for work and squeal with delight when he gets home.

But, today my heart is with the others…

There are so many women who in one way or another have impacted my life and will therefore always have a special place in my heart.

They deserve to be celebrated this day, too.

So, (at the risk of getting too personal here)…

To my mother: obviously you deserve to be celebrated. You've demonstrated unflinching love and compassion. You would fight for us until the end. We know that. Every child should know this of their mother. I hope my children will know this and will be able to experience through me the same gentleness which I was shown by you.

Gayle: Oh Gayle. There was such purpose in your relationship with me. I appreciate how you went out of your way to make sure I knew you were always available to be with me if I needed it or if I had any questions. You were a safe place to show my lack of homemaking skills and you taught with a gentle dedication that made me feel important. Your hospitality is legendary and will push me on to show others the same kindness. How I miss Titus 2!

Lydia: You have sons. I was blessed to be a girl outlet for you for a time. You embraced my babies as if they were actually your relatives and loved me and my small family so much that I never questioned it. I felt safe coming to your home and able to be myself. Your advice was always timely and challenging. I'm so grateful for you.

Katie, Heather, and Megan: We became mommies together. No joke, I couldn't have done it without you and I miss you e.v.e.r.y d.a.y. Bleh.

Ashley: You are my hero. The way you love, respect and honor your husband is so inspiring to me. And, the way you love your children… gosh, you give me something to aspire to.

Holly: My Hollyberries. We do not talk nearly enough. You are a legend in my story. You are known here in CO as the girl who discipled me without me realizing it. You were the first person to show me what it looks like to be authentic, humble, kind, vulnerable and how to really care for someone all at the same time. Our time in college was too short. I hope you know that I consider you my Paul and I, your Timothy. I would not be who I am today had you not invited me to read that book with you during my freshman year. Thank you for loving me and for changing my life!

Kate: Today you should be celebrated. Every girl/woman needs someone in her life who makes her feel beautiful. You enable women to feel good about themselves. This is a noble thing… and something that is SO challenging. You demonstrate confidence and humility, grace and joy, all while being so authentic it's incredible. You are affecting so many lives. I hope you know what a blessing you are to so many women.

Now, please realize that if I didn't mention you, it is NOT because you have not meant something awesome in my life…. there are so many women who mean so much to me - aunts, grandmas (though if I write about them, I'll cry), sisters-in-law, my mother-in-law, the mothers of my friends growing up, bible study leaders, friends, etc. I just was thinking about this day and felt the need to tell these women what they mean to me.

So, celebrate ALL of the women in your life today, not just the ones who have given birth. We all play a part in each other's stories. It takes a village to raise a child… I know this from experience. I hope other women will come along side my kids and help me help them become the people they are meant to be. And, I hope I get to do that for other people's kids. We need each other. Single a woman out today who has made an impact in your life even though they are not your mom. Share the love.

-kt