Mothering Day

I was way too busy with Bryce's PhD graduation and my impending surgery and leave to worry much about Mother's Day. It barely hit my radar this year. Mostly, I experienced mild consternation over ads that insinuated that only moms would love and deserve pajamas. 

Like others, I was impressed by how many companies had opt outs for promotional emails for the holiday. Unfortunately I missed a bunch in my burgeoning Gmail "Promotions" folder, but when cleaning that out while laid up, I was newly, if belatedly, appreciative. 

But. The best thing that happened was a text I received from a friend and coworker, someone I don't know super well but have gotten to know more each year. She is a calming force, a well of empathy. I enjoy her company and we are hysterectomy sisters -- she got hers the year after mine and I made her a "goodbye to your uterus" care package, that had tissue paper that was purposely shades of pink and red. You know. Like a lining. Ha. 

Anyway, she sent me this and I had to share with you because it is just so lovely:

"I am not sure how you feel on Mother's Day Jess. But Happy Mother's Day to you!! 🌸🌺🌷🌻🌹💐💐❤️

Not all "mothers" are biological, and some aren't even female. 

You have had an especially trying year with your kids. But you have been a wonderful second mother to all of those kids. I hope you celebrate today! ❤️❤️

And as I said, I do not know how you feel about this day, but I was thinking about you, and this day, and it is my hope all caregivers who play a central role in assisting with the growing up of children share in knowing that they are appreciated. ❤️❤️"

Ummm... Wow. For the record, she is a mother. And an amazing human. Well done, you. 

I would love to see Mother's Day become Mothering Day.  It could have the definition in her last paragraph. 

Mothering Day: a holiday made more inclusive by honoring and appreciating all caregivers who play a central role in assisting with the growing up of children. 

Wouldn't that be lovely?