Navigating Mother's Day Grief: Remembering Mom and Keeping Her Spirit Alive
2 years without my Mom on Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a bittersweet occasion for many of us, as it evokes both fond memories and sometimes heartache. It's a time to celebrate the women who have nurtured us, guided us, and loved us unconditionally. For me, however, Mother's Day has become more complicated ever since my mother, Jackie, passed away almost two years ago.
Jackie was the heart and soul of our family. She was the one who brought us all closer and we often spent Mother's Day together. The thought of spending this day without her has been so hard, even though we are told things get easier with time, I just don’t believe it! Being away from my family for grad school right now also adds to the complexity of the day. I miss them all, but I really miss my mom. She was my confidant, my role model, and one of my best friends.
At a loss for what to do with my day and in an effort to feel closer to her, I went to the beach. It's a place she never particularly enjoyed, but it's where I feel close to her . As I walked the shore, I can feel her presence beside me. It's comforting to know that even though she's physically gone, she's still with me in spirit.
As a mother myself, I am grateful for the four wonderful sons that Jackie helped me raise. It truly took a village and my mother was such a vital part of our all hands on deck parenting years. Our sons are my reminders of her daily. I see her influence in their lives, and it brings me great joy. I know that she would be proud of the men they are becoming.
Mother's Day is reminder of the love and support that my mother gave me. I am blessed to have had her in my life, and I will always cherish the memories we made together. Her spirit lives on in me, in my sons and all those she touched. I will honor her memory by being the best mother I can be, just as she was for me.
Holding space for any of you with heavy hearts this time of year.
More Later!
Amy