Mother’s Day is often wrapped in pastel colors, flowers, and warm embraces—but for many, it’s a day filled with complex and layered emotions. While it is a time to honor the women who’ve nurtured and shaped us, it’s also a day that can carry grief, longing, and quiet heartache.
For some, Mother’s Day is a joyful celebration of motherhood—breakfast in bed, handmade cards, and cherished time with family. It’s a time to express deep gratitude for mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures who have poured love into our lives.
But for others, this day is hard.
It may be the first (or one of many) Mother’s Days without their mom—a reminder of the empty chair at the table. For some, there are difficult or estranged relationships with mothers that leave a painful silence rather than celebration. And for those who have lost a child, experienced miscarriage, or are struggling with infertility, the ache of what could have been can feel overwhelming.
There are also countless women who may not have children of their own but mother in powerful, meaningful ways—through teaching, nursing, caregiving, mentoring, or simply being a steady, loving presence in the lives of others, including moms to their pets. Their love is no less real. Their impact is no less profound.
Mothering is not only biological—it’s a way of being in the world. It’s showing up, nurturing, comforting, guiding, protecting. The world is full of mothers in many forms.
If you’re feeling the heaviness of this day—or if someone close to you is—here are a few gentle ways to hold space:
• Reach out with empathy. A simple message like, “Thinking of you today” can mean more than you know.
• Listen. Sometimes the best support is your quiet, compassionate presence.
• Honor their experience. Acknowledge their story and the people they’re missing.
• Give a heartfelt gift. A candle, a note, or a shared memory can offer comfort and connection.
To all the mothers, mother-figures, and soul sisters—those who nurture with love, who hold others up, who show up in big and small ways—Happy Mother’s Day. Your love is felt. Your presence matters. You are appreciated more than words can express.
And to those who are grieving: You are not alone. Your feelings are valid. You are held with love, today and always.
Have a beautiful day!
Sheena
