Today, I reached out to you because I was feeling overwhelmed. Without a moment’s hesitation, you agreed to come over as soon as your laundry was done. Your presence during lunch with me and the kids instantly calmed my nerves and made everything feel secure. Why is it that everything seems so much safer when you’re near?
At 31, I still find myself wanting to run to you for comfort. You always manage to say just the right thing to lift my spirits. You’re the only one who truly understands the things I don’t express and notices all that I try to conceal.
I feel like I’m finally stepping into your shoes. In my toughest moments, I see how you cared for me. Some days, it feels like no one hears me. No one sees all the effort I pour into everything. I often feel like I’m giving endlessly, asked to do even more, yet it all goes unnoticed. My partner, without meaning to, sometimes makes me feel as though my contributions aren’t valued, especially when I don’t have tangible results at the end of the day. The house remains messy, the dishes pile up, and the bathroom floor is soaked with water and towels. I often struggle to remember what I accomplished during the day.
Sometimes, it feels like you’re the only one who recognizes my efforts. You understand how much love and energy I invest in everything I do. During my most selfless moments, I can’t help but recall how you gave to me. I think of those grapes I skip so the boys can enjoy them, just as you did for me when I was young. There were always grapes available for me, and even now, you encourage me to take the last of whatever’s left, insisting you don’t need it. I believed you until I became a mom myself. Now I see that you willingly let me have it, even if you wanted it too, because you prioritized me.
In moments of sacrifice, I recognize how much you still give. My day is filled with listening to others’ stories, celebrating their achievements, and marveling at Lego castles and karate kicks. I’m asked to cheer for everyone else, and once the kids are finally asleep, I get a brief moment to remember myself.
At times, I feel I do the same to you. I call, eager to share all the happenings in my life, speaking quickly so you can hear everything. You listen with such genuine interest, making me feel truly valued. Yet, when our conversation ends, I often realize I didn’t take the time to ask how you are.
You are my sanctuary. You nurture me even when I’m unaware of it. You make me feel cherished and understood, and I never fully appreciated this until now, when I often come last. I have begun to understand what it feels like to be the safe harbor for someone else.
I used to think I had outgrown my need for you, that I was forging paths you had never taken. You let me believe that, all while being right by my side, ready to help me rise when I stumble, just like you did when I was little. “Thank you” hardly captures my feelings, but I want you to know that I finally see you. I recognize your presence throughout my day, in my darkest moments and in the joyous times spent with my children. I see your sacrifices and the depth of your love. I truly see you now, Mom.
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In summary, this heartfelt reflection captures the deep gratitude and understanding that comes with motherhood, highlighting the selfless sacrifices made by our own mothers and the realization of their unwavering support.