The more we work on making peace and finding a meaningful connection with our mothers, the more skilled we will be in all other relationships.
Our relationship with mom is one of the closest bonds two people can share. That kind of intimacy requires us to define ourselves apart from her and still be emotionally engaged. This is the work we must do in all healthy relationships – be separate but still attached.
Mothers teach us how to be intimate, deal with conflict, how to feel about our bodies, how to cope, walk out our faith, and so much more. Moms shape our identity.
One of the greatest gifts a mother can give a child is to be a mom who has worked on her own emotional issues. That’s right, the better a mother feels about herself as a woman and the more confident she is in her identity in Christ, the greater gift she gives to her children.
As a tribute to your mom, name at least one positive thing your mom gave you that you appreciate.
I’ll begin. My mom gave me…
A sense of independence
A model of equal partnership with her husband
Faith and a Christian upbringing
Common sense
A role model for balancing business and family
People skills
A get-it-done attitude and work ethic
These are just a few of the things I can quickly recall.
This is one of the many ways we can show honor to our mothers. Think of all your mom has done for you. Send a positive message to her by recalling the good and telling her one or two positives.
Work on this important intimate relationship that sets the stage for all others. See if you can strengthen the bond, work through your issues, and find creative ways to stay connected with your mother on a deeper level.
Strengthening that mother-daughter bond
