I feel so fortunate to be a mother, a mother-in-law, a stepmother, and now a grandmother. Each of these roles comes with special privileges, responsibilities, and challenges. As your child grows, you are first a caregiver, then a teacher and guide, and then, you must step aside and let the individual as a young adult make their own path. While you may be in frequent contact, you must also allow your child to become their own person. That can be hard to do. Some mothers are unable to do that.
Then there comes a time when you, the mother, must insist on a level of respect as you age. “No, I have not lost my mind, and yes, I can do that.” That can be hard to do. Some mothers are unable to do that.
Then, there is the gift of grandchildren! You do not have to garner respect or let them go. You only have to love them.
All these roles are unparalleled emotional experiences, and I am so grateful for my stepchildren, my child and son-in-law, and my grandchildren. I truly consider motherhood one of the greatest loves of life.
