Authentically You Magazine A Mother's Joy May 2017 | Page 27

A Mother's Joy 
By: Tiffany Davis
What is a Mother’s Joy?
On the 2nd Sunday, every year, the United States
‘officially’ honors mothers on Mother’s Day. It is when
everyone, typically, shows their mom some extra love! A
day to celebrate and acknowledge sacrifices made. A day
when we honor the one who gave and continues to give
birth to generations.
As I prepared for this article, not having the privilege of
being a mother, I chatted with my own mother. I also called
upon some of my favorite mothers on social media and
asked, what is a mothers' joy? The answers varied,
obviously, but there were a few that undoubtedly were very
similar!
3. Plant something
I remember growing up and having a garden. That
garden is very much reminiscent of family and being
together (planting, harvesting, eating) and so much of my
eating habits today. We always had fresh vegetables. It
taught me how to appreciate where my food comes from. I
realize not everyone has space for an outside garden but
you can do a potted herb garden with basil, thyme, and
rosemary.
Responses like:
“Taking care of themselves,” “seeing my child happy,”
“smiles for just being mom,” “hearing my child's voice,”
“small accomplishments…responsible adults,” “making
their way in the world,” “lessons taught being used in
adulthood,” “true miracle of child birth,” “being a blessing to
others…”
That really got me to thinking… what can we, as mothers,
as caregivers, as nurturers give to make the above
responses manifest in our children? What lessons are we
teaching our children? Are we teaching them about health
and wellness? Specifically, how it relates to seeing them
happy and taking care of themselves? Nurturing children is
a gift and teaching them to nourish themselves is an
equally great and important gift.
Honor Her
The Bible states Ephesians 6 KJVV 2 “Honor your father
and mother”—which is the first commandment with a
promise— KJV 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou
mayest live long on the earth.
Now who doesn’t want to live long on this earth?
Living long, in part, is honoring your mother. It also entails
making conscious food choices. The earlier we start with
our children the more success they have for a wellness
lived life.
Where do we start with nourishment?
1. Be an example
Mothers, I know you give so much t