A Message to Bereaved Moms

I never knew that the first Sunday in May was International Bereaved Mother’s Day. For me, the second Sunday in May was always special; a time when I sent extra love and appreciation to my mom and mother-in-law, and when my children doted on me. When they were young, there were crayon or water-color masterpieces, “delicious” breakfasts in bed, and a general sense of trying to be exceptionally kind to Mom that day. But the memories most cherished are the Mother’s Days when they were grown. By then, they had all become treasured friends. Those are the hugs, hand-written letters, and special mementos that I value the most.

In doing a bit of research, I see that this day has only been designated such since 2010, but what a perfectly set date! Knowing that an especially difficult day, Mother’s Day, is right around the corner, International Bereaved Mother’s Day gives a formal nod to those who are grieving.

Are you a bereaved mom? Then you already know that every day is a day that you miss your sweet child, but Mother’s Day, and perhaps the anticipation of Mother’s Day, can be even harder. 

When I remember my first Mother’s Day without Nathan, if I’m honest, it was brutal. Only two months after his home-going, my fragile heart barely seemed to get me through a normal grief day, let alone, “Mother’s Day.” But I hope to encourage you today that this journey changes, and there will come a day when you will approach this day with joy again, remembering (perhaps still through tears) the amazing gift of God entrusting your precious child to you for their earthly days.

If you are not a grieving mom, please be extra loving to those you know. They need your texts, calls, and cards, remembering their child, no matter how long ago they left for Heaven.

My goal in the video below is to encourage those newly bereaved moms who are facing the pain of Mother’s Day. Along with my bereaved mom friend, Jill Sullivan, from While We’re Waiting, I hope our words will help grieving moms trust Jesus, the only One who can truly comfort our broken hearts.