ALT-2 What Mothers Day Means for a new Mom
To be perfectly honest, becoming a mother was something that was once beyond my wildest dreams. While I loved children and spent innumerable hours doting on my adorable niece and nephew, I never envisioned that one day I would have a drooling little one insisting that I give her attention by tugging at my pant legs. I feel a great sense of honor knowing that I now have a new holiday devoted to my tireless efforts of raising an angel. Rather than experiencing it as a day for me, however, I would rather take the time to reflect on the precious little girl who has changed my world.
To my darling little one, I want to thank you. Ever since that crisp September morning when you descended from Heaven and into my arms, you have taught me more about the value of love than one would learn if given an entire lifetime. Now that you are with me, the world has become an exciting playground. Together, we notice the trees and the neighborhood animals. The planes that occasionally fly over the fields emit a buzzing noise that used to annoy me, but now I watch you follow them in wonder and then give me a pleasing smile, and I find myself welcoming the noise if only to watch your expression. It amazes me to witness your every new discovery. At the ocean, you babbled away at a huge purple starfish and reached to shake its hand. In the back yard, you squealed and grinned wildly, watching the blades of grass sprout up between your toes. Even our cat - who has not been as quick to welcome you - is newly energized as you chase him across the room in a relentless quest to run your fingers through his silky fur.
You are so brave, little one. You love to tumble, twirl, wobble, and sit atop your daddy's shoulders, and every time you topple over when trying to walk, you determinedly begin again. I hope you will always have this fervor and passion. I make it a point to tell you every morning and every evening all of the reasons I am proud of you. Of course, there will come a day when you find this routine boring or intrusive as you seek more independence, but I will quietly hope that you remember these formative years or at least sustain the confidence and determination you have now as a child.
Mother's Day is so special to me because it reminds me of the vibrant color you have brought into my world and for the life you have breathed into my spirit. In this sense, I suppose we are both discovering a new world. I celebrate this occasion not because of what I have offered to you, but for what you have given me. You are an amazing co-pilot in our journey, and you have made every moment a new adventure. Happy Mother's Day, my child. I love you!
