A Reflection of Preparation for Aspiring Mothers

By Patricia Patnode

Mother’s Day happens in the second week of May, the month traditionally dedicated to Mary, the mother of God. 

May was dedicated to Mary likely to replace similar European pagan celebrations of new life during medieval times. It makes sense to honor our mothers when we honor our heavenly mother.

If you’re not a mother yet, if your mother has passed away, if you have a complicated relationship with your mother, or if you aren’t sure you’ll be a mother, the holiday is still an important reminder of the awe-inspiring, heroic undertaking of motherhood.

This Mother’s Day, after we take extra time to cherish mothers, grandmothers, and other mother-figures, we should prepare for the vocation in our own hearts.

This doesn’t mean mothering your boyfriend (ick) or rushing your current phase of life. Rather, it means taking stock of how you are cultivating your relationships and taking care of yourself. 

Consider this a reflection exercise for aspiring mothers:

Are you exploring and cultivating your unique, creative talents? 

Are you learning how to cook, and enjoy cooking, for friends and family?

Are you developing a personal hosting style? 

Are you decorating your home in a way that brings you and guests joy? What are your interior design tastes?  

Are you reading books you enjoy? 

Are you being a good friend?

Have you found a religious community that you can contribute to and participate in? 

Are you spending time with families to learn from and share in their challenges and joys? 

Are you fostering life-long friendships with people you’d want your children to know? 

Are you interacting with men in a way that is inviting to the right partner?

Are you being a good partner in your relationship?

Are you seeking travel and opportunities that will enrich your life, and foster a spirit of adventure in children?

Do you need to get out of a wilting relationship, or “situationship,” that you’ve been holding on to? 

Are you dating too many people at once (see our piece on ditching the roster), or are you not allowing anyone to get to know you?

Are you overextending yourself with activities, and not allowing yourself space to relax and discover hobbies?

Are you being a thoughtful daughter? 

Are you stewarding, loving, and mentoring your siblings well? 

The time spent waiting for a boyfriend, waiting for a husband, and waiting for a baby should be invested in fruitful pursuits.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Patricia Patnode is a columnist at The Conservateur and a Junior Fellow at the Independent Women's Forum. She can be found on Twitter @IdealPatricia.