When I was younger I tried to cancel Mother's Day….
My mom passed away due to a kidney illness right before my sophomore year of high school. My life was forever changed. I lost my biggest cheerleader. Holidays were different especially Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day is always celebrated on a Sunday and I would avoid church like the plague. I tried to cancel the holiday in my mind. Mothers Day was just another painful reminder that my mom was no longer physically here. It has not been easy going through major life events without my mom, but I'm so grateful that she left me a village. So many had a hand in raising me. My sister, aunties, God moms, and close friends of my mother. Now, I have a mother in law, and sisters in laws that have been added to the bunch. I am truly grateful for the women in my life, and I feel that they should be celebrated..
On this Mother's Day, I chose to celebrate my village. I cooked every dish by hand, prepared special table settings and Mother’s Day goodie bags. I even had a friend to come by and create a balloon garland to add to my décor. Yesterday was so beautiful, I could get up and do it all over again. I was so excited about showering love over family and friends, and the women that I look up to the most.
My pastor, the late Samuel Billy Kyles used to say “Death is not something you get over, its something you learn to live with.” Well I have learned to live with it. Things have gotten easier, but its still not easy.
I am sure as time goes on Mother’s Day will change for me, especially when its my turn to become a mother. My condolences to anyone who has lost their mother recently or years ago. If you are or were anything like me, a young girl who wished to cancel the holiday all together, I encourage you to choose this holiday to love on a mother near you. Seek out a special woman or women that have impacted your life in a positive way. Take a loved one to lunch, make a phone call, buy a bouquet of flowers, or go for a walk in the park with her or them. I encourage you to show love on this holiday, because love is what you will receive in return. #HappyMothersDay2019
Photography: Eric Smith-@smith.cr2
