“The man named his wife Eve (life spring, life giver), because she was the mother of all the living.” Genesis 3:20
Let’s look at the definition of the word mother according to Oxford language: a woman in relation to her child or children: an important female figure in the origin and early history of something: give birth to.
A mother is the medium chosen to deliver and nurture the minds of the youth. Apart from the first man Adam, every human being that has ever existed on this planet has come through the womb of a woman. The world’s Redeemer came through the womb of a woman. In Luke chapter one verses twenty-six through thirty-eight we are told of the interaction between the angel and Mary. “Do not be afraid.” Verse 30 “You will give birth to a Son and name Him Jesus.” Verse 31. “The Holy Spirit will come upon you.” Verse 35 Mary concluded the interaction with the following: “…Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.”
Below is a poem that reflects the affect a loving mother has on a child. It is titled Super Mom by Joanna Fuchs:
Mom, you’re a wonderful mother,
So gentle, yet so strong.
The many ways you show you care
Always make me feel I belong.
You’re patient when I’m foolish;
You give guidance when I ask;
It seems you can do most anything;
You’re the master of every task.
You’re a dependable source of comfort;
You’re my cushion when I fall.
You help in times of trouble;
You support me whenever I call.
I love you more than you know;
You have my total respect.
If I had my choice of mothers,
You’d be the one I’d select!
The following is taken from an article from psychologies.co.uk and provides an understanding of the different types of mothers and their affects on their children.
“1. Perfectionist mother
A perfectionist mother is typically, an over-controlling, fearful and anxious woman for whom appearance is everything. According to Poulter, ‘The children of a perfectionist mother tend to be hypercritical of themselves, feeling inadequate and emotionally empty.’
2. Unpredictable mother
Anxious, angry, excessively emotional, an unpredictable mother is overwhelmed by feelings so her parenting style is based purely on mood. This type has the most chaotic of the five mother types. She creates problems, issues and crises in her mind, through her emotions and relationships, and passes them on to her children.
3. The best friend mother
A best friend mother enjoys treating her children as equals in order to avoid the responsibility of setting boundaries. This mother believes her life would be over if she embraced motherhood so avoids that role.
Instead, both child and parent assume the role of emotional confidante and partner, leaving the child effectively motherless. ‘In this situation, the emotional needs of the mother are so consuming, she has to rely on the child to meet them,’ says Poulter.
4. The me-first mother
One of the most prevalent mothering styles, me-firsts are unable to view their children as separate individuals and tend to be self-absorbed and insecure. Their offspring will learn from an early age that their role is to make their mother shine.
Children of a me-first mother…
Your strengths: You are extremely good at supporting others, and are intuitive and insightful with people in all types of relationships. You are also loyal and supportive, able to appreciate other people’s needs and solve problems.
5. The complete mother
The complete mother combines the best elements of the other four mother types. Emotionally balanced, she can see her children as individuals and help them achieve their own independence.
She isn’t necessarily perfect herself but whatever her emotional circumstances, she is committed to motherhood — regardless of other responsibilities outside the home. According to Poulter, this ideal is only experienced by about 10 per cent of us.”
In conclusion, the grace of God is given to enable mothers to fulfill their roles as nurtures, providers and protectors of their children. The journey of being a mother who fulfills the Divine responsibilities of nurturing the young is often times a fearful one. The angel told Mary that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and mothers across the globe can trust that He still comes upon them to help them in their role. Mary’s response is the response that would never be disappointed (“I am your servant; may it be done as you will”) and this is the attitude of the mother who is committed to nurturing the youth of tomorrow.