My mom never needed a cape to be my superhero

This coming Mother’s Day is bittersweet. Last year at this time I sat next to my mom, hand in hand, feeling her butter-soft skin, knowing it was probably the last Mother’s Day we would share on this side of heaven. She took her place in paradise 10 days later. She was 89.

Grief comes in waves like an unexpected tsunami as I strive to be more grateful than sad. I realize I was one of the lucky ones – to have a mother who loved fiercely and lived her life in the way she hoped I would live mine.

Memories of every sort, as clear as the crystal in my china cabinet, make me smile, laugh out loud, and make me want to pick up the phone and call her. I hold such memories tight. Her spirit huddles around me and manifests in a love language that speaks to me. Daily.

When I became a mom, I learned the job is often messy, exhausting, less than glamorous, and underappreciated. I also learned, and still believe, it is the most important and most beautiful vocation there is – second to none.

As Mother’s Day draws near, I want to encourage young moms who take the time to do the little things — keep doing them. All day. Every day. Think of yourself as a superhero without a cape. The world needs you more than ever.

Thanks, Mom, for your lifelong inspiration and love. You never needed a cape to be my superhero.

When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking