To Be A Mother

"In speaking of mothers generally, I especially wish to praise and encourage young mothers. The work of a mother is hard, too often unheralded work. But with night feedings and night teethings, often the greatest challenge of all for a young mother is simply fatigue. Through these years, mothers go longer on less sleep and give more to others with less personal renewal for themselves than any other group I know at any other time in life. It is not surprising when the shadows under their eyes sometimes vaguely resemble the state of Rhode Island."

"Do the best you can through these years, but whatever else you do, cherish that role that is so uniquely yours and for which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones. Husbands--especially husbands--as well as Church leaders and friends in every direction, be helpful and sensitive and wise. Remember, 'To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.'"


"In light of that kind of expression, it is clear that some of those Rhode Island--sized shadows come not just from diapers and carpooling but from at least a few sleepless nights spent searching the soul, seeking earnestly for the capacity to raise these children to be what God wants them to be. Moved by that kind of devotion and determination, may I say to mothers collectively, in the name of the Lord, you are magnificent. You are doing terrifically well. The very fact that you have been given such a responsibility is everlasting evidence of the trust your Father in Heaven has in you. HE knows that your giving birth to a child does not immediately propel you into the circle of the omniscient. If you and your husband will strive to love God and live the gospel yourselves; if you will plead for that guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit promised to the faithful; if you will go to the temple to both make and claim the promises of the most sacred covenants a woman or man can make in this world; if you will show others, including your children, the same caring, compassionate, forgiving heart you want heaven to show you; if you try your best to be the best parent you can be, you will have done all that a human being can do and all that God expects you to do."

Elder Jeffery R. Holland

I saw these quotes on my cousin's blog this week and thought I would post them as well. I also saw this funny and awesome version of "the bather" on Snippet & Ink and thought it would be appropriate in celebration of mothers and the role they play in our lives.

Today we celebrate motherhood! You all know how much I love a good celebration! I am overwhelmed with emotion and awe when I think of the magnificence of motherhood! I take this sacred role most seriously and find confidence in it like nothing I have ever done. It makes me sad to know I am imperfect and so often fall short, but there is a peace that comes to my heart that I know every mother has if they will look for it. It is that peace that reminds you that you are doing it!!! You are living your highest calling! I wish more women would take mother's day as a day to honor themselves as well as each other. Don't let it be a day you allow the guilt of all your imperfections to wash over and depress you.

You are a "Wonder Woman"!

Let's think of our Heavenly Father, who, as Elder Holland says, has trusted us with this most awesome opportunity! He, the ruler of the universe trusts us because He knows what we are capable of!!! Wow. If that doesn't make you feel better about yourself......I don't know what will!

Happy Mother's Day!