The Orchid dance: Celebrating motherhood

“Flowers are the friends of life. And memories are the gardens of the heart.”

May is the month when we see so many beautiful flowers. In the same spirit, we celebrate one of life’s most profound expression of beauty...motherhood. Like flowers, mothers nurture, protect, and grow life in ways both seen and unseen.

Motherhood is one of the most sacred gifts a woman can receive. It expands the heart, deepens the soul, and call us to evolve in ways we never imagined. Yet like nature itself, it is not always easy. It carries great responsibility, unconditional love, sacrifice and at times, deep loss. With that loss can come profound pain, grief, and sometimes, even guilt. These are real and lasting emotions, even when they are not always visible or openly discussed.

When I think about his journey, I’m reminded of the orchid; majestic, patient and strong, supporting life after life. It blooms in its own time, not overnight, but through a quiet and steady process. In many ways it reflects the strength women carry with in them. Each woman blooms at her own pace, in a way that is unique to her soul, perfectly aligned with her own growth and evolution. Life is not a race to get through, but a journey to experience.

These experiences matter. They shape us, teach us and expand our capacity for love and resilience. My own journey has not been without scars, but I have come to embrace each one. They are part of my story, and I take ownership of them because they have helped shape me into the resilient, loving, grateful and kind woman I am today.

On May 21st, my husband Mike, our daughters, and I honor his late wife, María, marking the seventh anniversary of her passing. We honor her memory with love and reverence. We visit her grave, attend Mass, and share memories of her with our daughters, friends, and family. It is a day of connection, a day to tenderly honor the past and the love of a mother who is no longer physically with us, yet whose love will forever remain in our hearts.  I never met Maria in the physical world but I believe I met her in the spiritual one. In a dream, she came to me glowing, peaceful and reminded me of love. Since then, in difficult moments, especially when I need guidance with the girls, I quietly ask for her guidance and support.

This month, I also invite you to take a moment to observe what is blooming in your own life and to feel gratitude for it in your heart.

This month, I am grateful for my mother, stepmother and for being a mother. Motherhood has taught me so much not only about myself, but also about life and the joy that comes from nurturing another human being. My daughters are my motivation to keep learning and moving forward in step with the rhythm of life. With Mother’s Day on May 10th, it is important to take the time to honor those mothers, and people who have a motherly role in our lives, for their sacrifice and love for their children.

Feel free to share in the comments and inspire others. - I’d love to learn from you.