A Little Bracelet Symbolized a Mother's Life

Everyone has a story about their mother. Mothers are as different as their unique personalities. Some are patient and kind. Some are loud and obnoxious. Others are very opinionated. In spite of these characteristic differences in a mother’s personality, they do the best that they can, as there is no wrong way to love their child.

Let me first point out that being a mother is the most challenging, yet rewarding, experience in a woman’s life. Women have the ability to love their child unconditionally, in spite of the circumstances. It is said that a Mother’s Love begins at the very thought of conception and never ends; not even after death.

This year I wanted to mark my mother’s 80th birthday with something special. It didn’t need to be expensive; I simply wanted somethat that would reflect upon her life and our relationship. I eventually chose to put together an Italian charm bracelet that would reflect each of the stages of her life, especially her role of a mother.

For the mother who just gave birth to a red-faced, wrinkly skinned, squalling infant with no hair, no teeth, and no idea of who this woman is, her first comment is “Isn’t my baby the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen in your life?!” A new mother’s love is blind.

The mother of an obstinate two-year-old, whose boundaries are constantly being tested, patiently teaches the right way to behave. She allows her child to experience anger and frustration, but ignores tantrums, choosing instead to reward good behavior. This mother’s love is patient, for she understands this stage in her child’s life is short-lived.

The mother of the kindergartener learns to “let go” and allows her child to explore new experiences, meet new challenges, and discover ways to socialize with their peers. As the youngster grows into adolescence, the mother’s role changes with each stage; supporting, encouraging, and challenging the child to become independent. This mother’s love is constant.

The mother of the teen-ager experiences a love which is forgiving. Adolescents often test their boundaries; challenge the rules; bend the truth. Even though they are trying to be independent, they lack the maturity to do so. Often, mistakes are made. All a mother can do is encourage the child to learn from their mistakes; to take responsibility for their actions; to face the consequences. By doing so, she is enabling the child to grow into a self-reliant adult.

The love a mother has for her adult child is full of pride, for she has the satisfaction of a job well done in raising her child. Her efforts have been successful. Her love has overcome all of the obstacles and stages in life. This love is reciprocated because the adult child realizes and appreciates the love their mother has shown them throughout their life.

There is a special bond formed by mother and daughter once the daughter becomes a mother. The mother’s ever-changing role is now defined by the name “Grandmother”, and she understands…she knows…she empathizes and sympathizes with what her daughter will need to be as a mother. For, there is no stronger love than that of a mother; and no love more rewarding than becoming a grandmother!

Let’s all celebrate mothers and all the things they are!