What Makes a Mom

I haven't written much lately, and I suppose I was hoping it would be because I didn't have to. As it turns out, that isn't the case. And so, I turn back to you. I've been talking to so many people out there who have gone through the same thing I have, who have struggled with infertility, but I don't know what good this is doing me. I think it causes me to dwell on everything. Most of the time, I feel like I'm walking around with a big "M" stapled to my chest. The sideways head tilt, the calm, soothing voice, asking me "How are YOU doing?" I know they expect me to reply, "I'm alright" with a smile, but sometimes I just can't get there. Telling this to my friend, Shan, she sent me a link to her friend's blog...who's going through the same thing I'm going through...who's had the same experiences I've had. In reading the blog, I came across this poem that I'm going to re-post here.

What Makes a Mother

I thought of you and closed my eyes

And prayed to God today

I asked, "What makes a mother?"

And I know I heard Him say

A mother has a baby

This we know is true

But, God, can you be a mother

When your baby's not with you?

Yes, you can, he replied

With confidence in His voice

I give many women babies

When they leave it is not their choice

Some I send for a lifetime

And others for the day

And some I send to feel your womb

But there's no need to stay

I just don't understand this God

I want my baby here

He took a breath

And cleared His throat

And then I saw a tear

I wish I could show you

What your child is doing today

If you could see your child smile

With other children and say

"We go to earth to learn our lessons

Of love and life and fear

My mother loved me so much

I got to come straight here

I feel so lucky to have a Mom

Who had so much love for me

I learned my lessons very quickly

My mother set me free

I miss my Mother oh so much

But I visit her each day

When she goes to sleep

On her pillow is where I lay

I stroke her hair and kiss her cheek

And whisper in her ear

Mother don't be sad today

I'm your baby and I'm here."

So you see, my dear sweet one

Your child is okay

your baby is here in My home

And this is where they'll stay

They'll wait for you with Me

Until your lessons are through

And on the day you come come

They'll be at the gates for you.

So, now you see

What makes a mother

It's the feeling in your heart

It's the love you had so much of

Right from the very start

Though some on earth

May not realize

Until their time is done

Remember all the love you have

And know you are a special mom.

~Author Unknown