On Mothers.

Written by Natalie Moore

My Spiritual Mothers

I've had a few and still do. These women walk beside me and before me. They've counseled me through heartbreak and career aspirations. They've encouraged my growth and helped hone my talents. They've answered a phone call or text message in love and grace. They've offered a shoulder, a hug or a cup of tea. I want to offer a shout out to just a few of my spiritual mamas and thank them this Mother's Day.

Aga B- for music, a bed, inspiration, conversation and laughter. And letting me love and counsel your daughter from womb to womanhood.

Edyta O- you're resting in Jesus but I thank you for physical care, spiritual nourishment and a personal investment in my life. You were the epitome of grace and the hands and mouth of Jesus.

Marcela G- for great meals, a warm smile, encouraging my own mum in her journey of motherhood and prayers.

Doedie F- for opening your home to countless youth, for welcoming me alongside you in the kitchen, for asking how I’m going (then and now), for showing me what a godly woman, wife, mother and someone willing to be used by God looks like.

Wendy S- for coming to the hospital when I was falling apart. For cups of tea and naps in the spare room.

Judith S- more of a spiritual grandmother; for chatting about music and the delights and dilemmas of the teacher's life.

Daniella H- more of a sister (you're only 10 years older than I am); for walking a few steps ahead of me in motherhood and modeling gentle yet firm parenting for me.

Emily C- for inspiring my young mind to learn, for your kindness, for staying connected and for being one of my reasons for pursuing teaching.

Caitlin N (another sister)- for sharing your faith, for encouraging my walk with Jesus and for keeping it completely real.

Lisa M- for accepting me in law, but loving me by choice.

There are many more I could mention. THANK YOU!!

My Own Mum

I won't ever be able to fully express just how much you mean to me. Some women have other women as best friends, some their husbands, some their sisters. For me, Maminko, you're my best friend. From the trauma of childbirth (your pain tolerance is shocking) to years of minimal sleep, breastfeeding, and general stressing. From hoping, wishing, praying over my young life, to letting me go into the world and reluctantly seeing me settle into who I was meant to be in Tasmania. For answering every phone call, no matter the ridiculous hour. For faithfully praying for me and with me. For holding me when I cried, for rejoicing with me over every big and small victory. For telling me the truth, even if it hurt. For challenging me. For learning with me and at times humbly learning from me. For giving me freedom in safe boundaries. For supporting my reading addiction. For giving me opportunities others could only dream of. For loving my Dad through the years and showing me what a wife can bear. For showing that you don't have to be perfect, you just need to be willing. For staring cancer straight on with God by your side and releasing it all to Him. For bearing the heartache of having your only daughter and grandchild 1350km away. For questioning if your decisions were right or wrong. For asking forgiveness if you'd harmed me in anyway. For apologising. For accepting. For speaking and for silence. I will be forever grateful that God chose you as my mummy. Happy Mother's Day, every day. I am the mother I am, because you are the mother you are. I love you.

Happy Mother's Day to all.

N.