Mother's Day can be a weird day for single women. Some of that probably comes with how we celebrate it as a culture, and especially a Mormon culture. Today, I will go to my sacrament meeting, and hear talks and primary songs about wonderful mothers, and about how important mothers are to eternal families. After that, the men of the ward will stand at the back of the chapel and pass out little gifts to all the Moms and older single women - usually some sort of sweet treat, or a plant. This is how it has been celebrated my entire life in the church.
Now, what I've just described is not something I have any real problem or concern with. But I know a lot of women who do. I have many friends that will choose not to attend church today, or if they do attend, will leave right after partaking of the sacrament. While I can see why they feel this way, I am concerned that they come from a perspective of lack, rather than a perspective of abundance. I use that term because I believe that because of the plan of salvation and Christ's atonement, I am blessed with abundance. I have definitely gone through the grief that comes from not being married or having children. And it's not always comfortable or easy to find ways to not feel sorry for myself over my demographic status. But personally, I think that avoiding church and being worried and miserable on this day is not the right approach.
Here's the thing - motherhood, and our potential as "mothers" is part of Heavenly Father's plan. And I believe in the plan. Just because I don't have children now doesn't mean I can't celebrate the important role of mothers in the plan. The fact that most of our wards stumble in their attempts to celebrate it doesn't make it any less important.
So, to all my friends and family, no matter your demographic status, I wish you a heartfelt Mother's Day. Make it a happy and faith-filled day.
Now, what I've just described is not something I have any real problem or concern with. But I know a lot of women who do. I have many friends that will choose not to attend church today, or if they do attend, will leave right after partaking of the sacrament. While I can see why they feel this way, I am concerned that they come from a perspective of lack, rather than a perspective of abundance. I use that term because I believe that because of the plan of salvation and Christ's atonement, I am blessed with abundance. I have definitely gone through the grief that comes from not being married or having children. And it's not always comfortable or easy to find ways to not feel sorry for myself over my demographic status. But personally, I think that avoiding church and being worried and miserable on this day is not the right approach.
Here's the thing - motherhood, and our potential as "mothers" is part of Heavenly Father's plan. And I believe in the plan. Just because I don't have children now doesn't mean I can't celebrate the important role of mothers in the plan. The fact that most of our wards stumble in their attempts to celebrate it doesn't make it any less important.
So, to all my friends and family, no matter your demographic status, I wish you a heartfelt Mother's Day. Make it a happy and faith-filled day.
Comments