Chaplain's Corner

Hi Everyone! 

 Who is a 'mother'?

What makes a mother a ‘mother’? Does it only mean" one who has a child" or is it something more? Can a mother be someone who has no children?

As I think of Mothers’ Day and all that it entails, I think of my own precious mother who raised 7 children!  I also think of women who were not my birth mother, but who treated me with love, nurtured me and helped me become who I am. I think of mothers who grieve for their children in many ways and for many reasons.  Regardless of what category you fall under as a woman, might I suggest that you are a ‘mother’? 

Official definitions of mother range from one who "gives birth to a child", to adoptive or stepmothers, to mothering meaning "to watch over, nourish and protect maternally." This means that every woman has the capacity to be a mother whether they have children or not.

They can be grandparents, sisters, aunts, leaders, teachers or anyone who is willing to reach out to another human being with love. As the saying goes, "it takes a village to raise a child." (Yes, I  really like that quote!)

Attributes of mothers   The eyes of a child are always watching and observing and learning from the mothers around them. Every mother has a special blend of attributes that she can use to lead, guide and lift others.

 No two mothers are alike   Mums have a tendency to compare themselves to seemingly "perfect" mothers and then proceed with negative self-talk about what terrible mothers they think are. The "seemingly perfect mum" has strengths, but she also has weaknesses. And you have weaknesses, but you also have many strengths that are needed for your family or those you mother.

Mother's Day is a day to be celebrated!  Remember to enjoy and be grateful to those who want to celebrate YOU. Likewise, tell the women in your life how much they mean to you. There is nothing like witnessing the joy on the faces of a small child, a spouse or friends as they do something kind for you to show their love and appreciation.

Whether you are a mum with no children or many, an empty-nester or a new mother, a loving grandmother, aunt or friend, Mother's Day is for you. Your nurturing and caring ways qualify you as a mother. Mothering is a special gift designed to help and comfort others who need your love, care and strength. Regardless of how we mother, we are all doing our best with the circumstances and strengths we have. Though there are no perfect mothers, there are many great ones.

Robyn Mulholland (Student Well-being)

(robyn.mulholland@education.vic.gov.au)