Motherhood

Motherhood is near to divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind. It places her who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels.

--The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

As mothers in Israel, we are the Lord’s secret weapon. Our influence comes from a divine endowment that has been in place from the beginning. In the pre-mortal world, when our Father described our role, I wonder if we didn’t stand in wide-eyed wonder that He would bless us with a sacred trust so central to His plan and that He would endow us with gifts so vital to the loving and leading of His children. I wonder if we shouted for joy at least in part because of the ennobling stature He gave us in His kingdom. The world won’t tell you that, but the Spirit will.

--Sister Sheri Dew

As I tenderly acknowledge the very real pain that many single women, or married women who have not borne children, feel about any discussion of motherhood, could we consider this one possibility about our eternal female identity—our unity in our diversity? Eve was given the identity of “the mother of all living”—years, decades, perhaps centuries before she ever bore a child. It would appear that her motherhood preceded her maternity, just as surely as the perfection of the Garden preceded the struggles of mortality. I believe mother is one of those very carefully chosen words, one of those rich words—with meaning after meaning after meaning. We must not, at all costs, let that word divide us. I believe with all my heart that it is first and foremost a statement about our nature, not a head count of our children.

--Sister Patricia Holland

I honor women who are not mothers. They know that motherhood is but one of the realms of womankind. The virtue and intelligence of women are uniquely applicable to other realms as well, such as compassionate service and teaching.

--Elder Russell M. Nelson

There is no one perfect way to be a good mother. Each situation is unique. Each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children. The choice is different and unique for each mother and each family. Many are able to be “full-time moms,” at least during the most formative years of their children’s lives, and many others would like to be. Some may have to work part-or full-time; some may work at home; some may divide their lives into periods of home and family and work. What matters is that a mother loves her children deeply and, in keeping with the devotion she has for God and her husband, prioritizes them above all else.

--Elder Russell M. Ballard, "Daughters of God," General Conference April 2008

Some women give birth and raise children but never “mother” them.  Others, whom I love with all my heart, “mother” all their lives but have never given birth.  Therefore, we must understand that however we accomplish it, parenthood is the highest of callings, the holiest of assignments. 
— Patricia Holland, A Quiet Heart

There were several years that I assumed the blessing of motherhood had passed me by. I always knew I wanted to be a mom and I always felt like a mom, I just didn't have any children of my own. And in a sense I was okay because I have brothers and sisters who freely share their children. And those children really love me, a lot! 

And that may sound ridiculous because I was young, it was just a feeling. But then 17 months ago I was blessed with the most perfect baby, Elijah. Sure he was fussy and he cried and he made me cry but he was perfect non the less. He has taught me a lot about motherhood. Then just recently, 10 weeks ago, I was blessed with my sweet Madelynn. I am a mother of two vibrant, energetic, lovely children. I could not be more blessed. There are days that I want to throw in the towel but then I get a smile or a snuggle and I melt. 

I've had several examples of great mothers in my life. I have a mother and while we haven't alwayls seen eye to eye, she has always been there for me. She loves me even when I'm grumpy. I love next door to her right now, and while I don't want to always live next door, it's been a pleasant 8 months. She has been an awesome mom and nana. I love you mom. 

Then there is my mother in law. I've not known her for long but I truly love her. She is an example for me in motherhood and her love of the gospel. I'm sure she doesn't always agree with me but she loves me.  And that means a lot. When coming into a new family it's nice to have the mom welcome you do easily. 

I also have incredible sisters and sister in laws. Some have children, some do not but they are each an example to me and to my kids. Oldest to youngest; Julie, is kind and patient. She has came to visit both of my babies in their first 2 weeks of life. She plays and reads to them. She is an example of motherhood. Renee, she can juggle about a gazillion at once. She is always willing to help out. She is amazing! She is an example of motherhood. Melissa truly loves babies! She is very patient with them. Elijah has even thrown up on her. She makes an effort to keep in touch. She is an example of motherhood. Amy, a super mom. She is amazing. She crafts, she's fun and she's a great friend. She is an example of motherhood. Rebekah, is a funny girl. She sometimes plays like she doesn't like kids but she loves her cuddle time. She's a teacher so she has about 20 kids of her own each year. She is an example of motherhood. Kara, simply amazing. She is talented and shares her talents with others. She encourages her kids to be creative and to try new things. She is an example of motherhood. Charity, is a rock star. She just finished dental hygiene school while being an awesome mommy to Riley and pregnant. She is unstoppable. She is an example of motherhood.

All these women have taught me different lessons. And there are so many more who have contributed! I'm a blessed girl. Blessed to have Brent, blessed to have my children, blessed to have 2 mothers I love dearly, blessed to be a sister to so many incredible people. 

Motherhood is sacred and I'm thankful for it.