Motherhood is…

Motherhood is hard. It is emotionally and physically draining. It is challenging to raise a human. The uncertainty and fear that every decision could negatively impact your child is a constant companion. And guilt is real and strong and oppressive.

Motherhood is amazing. Watching a little being you nurtured become a person is one of the greatest privileges of life. The joy and bond in a mother-child relationship is proof that love is everything; it is all the world needs to thrive.

Motherhood is pain. Sometimes motherhood comes to those who aren’t ready. And sometimes it doesn’t come at all. The pain of both is crushing. The loss is real. Abortion or miscarriage. Both are felt. Both are remembered. Both leave scars.

Motherhood is sacrifice. It is hard to balance the needs of others with the needs of self. Selflessness morphs into the loss of self. And the ever-present balance of fulfillment versus motherhood is a constant battle.

Motherhood is not just biology. It is nurturing, protecting, teaching, loving, guiding, and caring for another person so deeply that they become a part of your heart. It is raising a person, not birthing a person.

I salute and celebrate all mothers. Thank you for all you give and all you do.

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