Mother’s Day 2021 is bittersweet. My birthday happens to fall on my first Mother’s Day without my mom. It’s been almost two months since her passing, and the range of emotions I’ve felt since March 15 has been indescribable.
I took some time this weekend to be alone, and to recharge and reflect at a swanky hotel (because, any time’s a good time for self-care right??).
Being a caregiver, and now dealing with her passing, has taught me some HUGE lessons! But the biggest takeaway for those of us who are facing this holiday without our dear mothers, is that we can celebrate their lives and honor their memories in so many ways – not only on Mother’s Day, but every day.
Remember – and pass on – what she taught you
What seemed like small, annoying lectures years ago are actually profound life lessons. Today, I’m even more determined to pass along what she’s taught me to my own children. I find myself repeating the exact same things she’d say to me as a child. I didn’t fully appreciate this wisdom growing up, but I realize that she was planting seeds – seeds that are meant to be passed on to generations to follow.
Continue her traditions
What did your mom enjoy doing? Did she have a favorite museum or attraction? Go back to the places where she spent the most time. What did the two of you used to do together? There’s no reason why you should stop doing those things! I listen to and sing my mom’s favorite songs with the kids, cook her signature meals (or at least attempt to lol), watch some of her favorite shows, and host the occasional family dinner – all the things that she loved and was known for.
Create a memorial in her name
My family encouraged donations to a local nonprofit in my mother’s memory – but there’s so much you can do to keep your mother’s legacy going. Name a star after her. Plant a tree in her honor. Start a scholarship fund. Have fun and be creative!
Cherish a keepsake to remember her by
Simply looking at or wearing my mom’s wedding ring brings me comfort. You could do something more elaborate like creating a shadow box of her belongings to put on display, look at her photos. If it’s jewelry, consider passing it on to your children, or someone in the next generation.
Remember the good times
This always helps! I reflect on my mom’s quirky habits and her hilarious one-liners. When the family gets together, we talk about her mannerisms and laugh at the memories made with her.
This is what life’s about! It all comes full circle.
Remember, everything your mother did, everything she poured into you, was preparing you for this moment in your life. She may be gone, but her legacy doesn’t have to be.
How do you keep your mother’s legacy going on a daily basis?