Honoring the Mother

As we have just exited the Holiday Season, I feel the presence of my Mother, Nancy, so clearly. She passed away almost 2 years ago, and although the pain of losing her has become less overwhelming, the absence of her at this time of year is profound. She LOVED Christmas! As a single Mom, she never had much money to spend on the 5 of us, her children, but she made the season so special. The tree, the lights, candles everywhere, and always just the right gift, even if it wasn’t much. She knew each of us. Listened to us. Honored our individual tastes and interests. I believe that this is the most powerful Mothering tool that she inspired in me. As I enter into the frenzy of consumption and overspending that this Holiday inspires, I remember that the gifts I want most for my children are the memories of us being together as a family, and sharing our abundance with those who really DO NOT have anything. We will volunteer, we will donate coats and food, and we will try to calm the need for MORE STUFF! Like my Mother, I will try to give only one thing that will be very special for my children, and not over give. It’s important that they feel special because of who they are to us, not because they get a lot of presents during our dual Holidays. I hope that we all can remember to be present with each other and not be distracted by presents. I hope to honor my Mother by loving my family wholly and simply. I will light candles and draw her presence near. Wishing you all a Joyous and Peaceful Season of Light!