Mother’s Day Isn’t Simple — And You’re Not Alone if It Feels That Way
Mother’s Day has always been a bit of an enigma for me.
As a woman, I wear many hats when it comes to this day. Some joyful, some tender, some complicated. Maybe you can relate.
I’m a Daughter
Like many of you, my relationship with my mom is layered. I love her deeply, and yet we don’t always see eye to eye. Over the years, Mother’s Day has meant different things — sometimes fun and light, other times emotional and hard.
This year, things feel even more tender. After an accident last year, my mom’s health has changed. She and my dad are moving into a retirement home, and I’m helping them pack up their life. The woman who once played piano at church, worked in a jewellery store, and baked with me — she now needs more of my support than ever before. It’s an honour, and it’s also strange to feel the roles shifting. If you’re in this phase too, you know how disorienting that can be.
I’m a Mother and Stepmother to Adult Children
This role continues to evolve. I used to orchestrate Mother’s Day — even gave my kids money to go buy me something when they were young. Now that they’re grown, I wait and see if they’ll initiate anything, and honestly? That can feel awkward and vulnerable. How do you ask someone to celebrate you?
There are days I’m overwhelmed with pride for who they’ve become. And other days when I wrestle with the loss of being needed in the same way. Letting go, redefining yourself, and finding your footing again after parenting full-time — it’s no small feat.
I’m a Mom to a Teenager
Yep, I’ve got a teenager too. Surprise baby. Second marriage. And 31+ years of parenting under my belt.
Some days, I feel like she’s lucky to have a mom who’s done this before. Other days, I worry I’m too tired or stretched to give her what she needs. Parenting a teen at this stage of life comes with its own unique mix of wisdom, weariness, and wonder.
I’m a Grandmother
And oh, this one is sweet. Being a grandma means I get to love fiercely and also sleep through the night. It’s easy to adore that little guy — but I’m also navigating how to be present and supportive to his parents without overstepping. I want to be steady and loving, not nosy or overly involved. That balance is always in motion.
Motherhood — in all its forms — has brought me deep joy, incredible love, and a fair share of heartache. Some days I feel grounded and confident. Other days I scroll through Instagram and think, why does everyone else look like they have it together but me?
If that’s you too, I want you to know: you’re not alone.
For me, Mother’s Day is a swirl of love, joy, pride, exhaustion, grief, and reflection — all packed into one day. If you’re feeling that same mix, or if the day brings up something entirely different for you, here are three things I’ve learned that might help:
3 Ways to Care for Yourself on Mother’s Day
1. Step away from social media.
Even just for a day or two. Sometimes it’s not just Sunday that stings — Monday can be hard too. Protect your peace.
2. Be present in the way that works for you.
Whether you’re on your own, surrounded by family, or somewhere in between — notice what you need. If you’re doing the planning, carve out something just for yourself. If you’re alone, that matters too. Let yourself feel whatever comes.
3. Reach out for support.
This could be a friend, a partner, or a therapist. It might mean asking directly, or simply choosing to be around people who get it. You don’t have to carry the emotional weight of this day on your own.
If Mother’s Day feels heavy this year — whether you're navigating a difficult relationship, missing someone you love, or just wrestling with how you fit into this day — please know that you don’t have to go through it alone.
If you’re in Surrey, BC and looking for a place to process these emotions, I’d be honoured to support you. You can reach out through my contact page to get started today.
Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is just tell the truth about how we feel.
