Originally posted on 07 May 2022

I was at the Farmer’s Market this morning chatting to a stall holder who’s become a friend. The subject of Mother’s Day (tomorrow, Sunday 8th) came up and I said I wasn’t sure which Mother’s Day to celebrate, the Lebanese one on the 21st of March or the New Zealand one, on a Sunday of May every year? My friend suggested I should celebrate both, especially that I have two children now. Wise friend, aye?

It’s true, this year, I have two children who have chosen to make me their mother. Two children I am blessed to share my pillow and bed with. The first one, turning 3 in a month, held my hand to sleep last night. He didn’t just hold my hand, he enveloped it with his warm and tender hands. The second one, almost 5 months, held my cheek for most of the night too. Her tiny fingers gently molding my face into a shape that fits them right into place. Last night, I felt held and looked after by the souls I was entrusted to hold and look after. It’s true that a mother needs mothering sometimes, and I’m grateful for my wise little teachers and carers.

I’ll keep reminding myself to celebrate them and myself for getting to be each other’s family and blessing.