Mother, oh Mother

Mother. That word is such a strange power. It is also very subjective.

I was thinking of different women that I've known; different mothers.

I knew a woman once who said she hitchhiked across Arizona with all of her small children in tow to escape an abusive husband. I admired her for her bravery.

One woman I knew gave up being around her kids to escape an abusive relationship also, but she wasn't able to take her children with her. She had to leave them with their dad and was given minimal supervision because he had better lawyers. She went on with life, but her joy was gone. I really feel sad for her.

Then there are women who think that their children owe them something for keeping them alive. They think that they should be the center of the universe and that no one is as important as they are. One woman I know in particular uses the fact that she gave birth as a tool to manipulate her children and gain attention. It saddens me and angers me at the same time.

Children are a gift. My child is my greatest gift. I would show appreciation for this gift by raising her right and caring for her until I can no longer do so. If you love something, cherish it and protect it. If you love someone, cherish them and protect them.