Mother’s Day is the time we celebrate the beautiful women in our lives.  But it can also leave many of us who have experienced grief and loss around motherhood in an emotional state.

There are many aspects of grief related to Mother’s Day. We have those who are grieving due to infertility, miscarriage, loss of a baby or a child, placing a child for adoption, abortion, or a loved one.  We may grieve for other reasons.  Our parent has Alzheimer, or we are not able to visit them for a variety of reasons are all hard things to work through.

We also face a different year with COVID-19; we may not have the opportunity to visit our loved one who may be in a Nursing Home whom we cannot visit.  It can create a difficult and painful day for many.

Because everyone grieves differently, some of us may be overcome with strong emotions on Mother’s Day, while others may focus on the happy times.  The important thing is, do what feels right for you, whatever that may be.

So I want to share a few key points that I hope help.

First, it is essential to know that this day or the days leading up to it can be hard, no matter when the loss happened.  It is entirely reasonable to feel a wide range of emotions ranging from sadness, anger, longing, and guilt.

Be prepared to put yourself first; think about how you would like to spend the day. You might want to be on your own or surrounded by friends and family.  Involve others if that helps, but also remember depending on what you are feeling, there may be children, family, etc. who are also suffering – include them.

It is essential to be kind to yourself; grief is hard and exhausting, both physically and emotionally.  It is important to remember that and look after your self-care.  Get sleep, eat well, and exercise.  If your tired, take a nap, go for a walk or read a book, but it is essential to take care of yourself.

This year we may be doing things differently, and that is hard. With COVID-19, the idea of doing what you always did is too painful.  We are learning to think outside the box and do something different.   Write a letter, send a card, make a call.  Whatever we can do to lessen our grief helps.

For me, I will think outside the box, and it is not perfect, it is not what I desire.  I am with you, and I will honor my mother, my children, and myself.   I pray the same for each of you.

If you need prayers or want to comment list below.

 

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