The past few days I have been listening to various stories on my favorite radio station. The question has been asked, “What would be your best Mother’s Day gift?”
I have been thinking about how different my answer today is compared to 10 years ago, 5 years ago or quite honestly, even a week ago. Of course, some of that has to do with a shattering event that took place in our family this past week. But it also has to do with the stage of life I am in.
When I think back 10 years ago my children were 8, 5 and 3 years old. For many years the things that I wanted most for Mother’s Day was a break.
Sometimes that meant my husband allowed me a couple of hours to myself, so he would take care of the children. Sometimes that meant he would handle some of the chores around the house.
I would have to say that the majority of my years as a mother, the greatest Mother’s Day gift would be time for me. Not this year…this year the best gift I could receive is time with my children.
It had already been difficult enough, thinking about the fact that this will be my last Mother’s Day with my oldest son, as he will be leaving for the Air Force. But then there is also the fact that my children are always so busy, there is rarely a weekend when all of them are home.
The icing on the cake was, as I mentioned, a life-shattering event that took place this week…not one I can freely share here. I’m sure with time and permission from family members; it will eventually turn into a teaching opportunity. But the realization of how short time is and that you never know what life can bring has completely changed my perspective of time on Mother’s Day.
It is no longer about having time for me; it is about sharing it with the greatest gifts I have ever received…my children.
Related Articles:
No More Disappointing Mother’s Days for Me
Those Three Little Letters—M.O.M.
Preparing Emotionally for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day Not a Complete Bust
Photo by dlee in stock.xchng