You see, the hardest part about all of this is the idea that she really will miss everything.
Wedding, first child and all those other silly moments you never noticed were important until you couldn’t share them with her.
All of these tribulations make it easy to resent a holiday like Mother’s Day; a day where others are filled with love, comfort, and happiness.
It is a day many people take for granted because they no longer revel in it with the same contentment.
As time passes, however, you learn to cope with these emotions and although no amount of time could fully heal a wound so deep, it does allow you to find strength.
Strength that will heal you in more ways than you could ever imagine. It allows your pain to reinforce you, not define you.
And although this process is very different for many, strength allows some of the beauty in life to creep back into your view.
It transforms your grief into serenity, fear into assurance and hopelessness into promise.
As Mother’s Day approaches this year, I ask you to keep those who have lost their mothers close to your heart.
I also ask that as you rummage through the aisles of stores this year for the “perfect gift,” you remember that you are the best one they could ever ask for.
Spend those last few extra moments on the phone with her; fold the clothes on the dryer the first time she asks you to; listen to her terrible music because you know it makes her happy.
My deepest regret is that because I was so blindsided, I didn’t know our last conversation would be just that: Our last. No one is guaranteed another day, so please, remember to make it count.
To all of those who have lost a mother, parent or loved one, know this: They are not lost, and we are not motherless.
Celebrate this day even more so than before, for both her and you. Rejoice her life, her light and your fondest memories of her.
Remember she has a front row seat to your life and know she wouldn’t dare miss even the slightest instance of it.
Lastly, to my beautiful and courageous mother: Happy birthday and Happy Mother’s Day. Thank you for contributing so incredibly to the person I am today.
You have given me more strength than most could ever hope to attain in a lifetime, and I am forever grateful for that.
We all hold a very special place in our hearts for you that will never be replaced. You always promised me I had guardian angels watching over me, and I’m more sure of that now than ever before.
I love you so much, and I look forward to the day I can see your smile and hear your laugh again.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful mothers out there!
Enjoy this day with your loved ones. You deserve it.
