Full of Grace: A Mother’s Journey Through Time

To age gracefully, I will embrace every wrinkle and gray hair life throws my way, as they make their always, ever-surprising cameos into my reflection in the mirror. With each of these appearances, I promise to remember the moments of stress that helped design them; the moments my babies fell taking their first steps, ventured bright-eyed into their new schools, collided with a defender mid-play, and braved their first dates and dances.

I will nurture every ache and pain with tenderness and love, and promise to take care of my body as the years pass, so that it may one day, wrap its arms around grandchildren. With each new twinge of discomfort and every epsom salt bath for pain, I will fondly recall the hours I rocked them to sleep, no longer able to feel my limbs; the times I carried them in 100-degree heat, as if I were braving a desert trek; the many moments my back became a horse to ride on or I, the dragon of a castle to be slain.

With every step on my toes and knee in my gut, I promise not to focus on the way cleats feel upon my bare feet but rather, on the fleeting moments they still long to be that close to me, even if I become a human jungle gym in the process. I will cherish these bumps and bruises instead of screaming in agony, for they are battle wounds that I shall wear with the fierce pride of a lioness. The physical timecard of the most important job I show up to every day.

I will hold in my heart the moments I’ve had with my beautiful children; every boo-boo I’ve kissed, every tear that I’ve wiped, every cough that I’ve nursed, every moment of uncontrollable laughter, every night time story we’ve read together, the many soccer games and dance recitals I’ve cheered at, and every night that I’ve kissed their slumbering heads before retiring to my own bed.

In return here are my requests. 

Always let me be their home. Like the comfort of an old blanket, let my children return to me year after year and seek comfort in my arms as they breathe in my familiar scent. Allow them to trust in the unconditional and everlasting love that this human has for them, a love that knows no bounds. 

Let them believe in the goodness that still exists in the world, even if at times it seems as though there is none. Don’t allow fear to hold them back from chasing their dreams. Fill their hearts with love, adventure, gumption, a sprinkle of fearlessness and a healthy dose of caution. Always help them be kind. Assist them in discovering who they are and be proud to wear it like a badge of honor. 

Like I shall proudly wear my wrinkles, gray hair, and other perfect imperfections.

Comments