A mother’s job is never done. I see that now that I have five children of my own. As I raise my children, and share little tidbits of wisdom, culture, and tradition with them each day, I often catch a glimpse of my own mom in me. My mother’s strength, optimism, and survivor’s spirit resonates through me, as it spills out in my parenting.

Born and raised in Cuba, until the age of 14, my mom, whose name is Alicia came to America with practically nothing, but the clothes on her back. Leaving behind her parents, who wouldn’t meet up with her until a few years later was heartbreaking to say the least. In addition to that was her home, her friends, and her well-to-do lifestyle which she had become accustomed to. Such drastic, life-changing events would break the spirit of any 14 yr. old. Yet, as my mom often says, “What doesn’t kill you will only make you stronger”. That proved to be the case for her.

My mother went on to marry, have 5 children of her own, and get her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees. Even when times were financially tough growing up, my mom made us feel like we were rich. She’d put on some music, cook up something delicious out of nothing, and create some fun adventure for us to play.

Through the years, my mom has always been a source of encouragement and strength for my siblings and I. Even while caring for my elderly grandmother who has Alzheimer’s disease, and teaching full-time, my mother provided a constant flow of support for my sister when my 14 yr. old niece was suddenly diagnosed with terminal cancer of the spine.

People always say my mom is different. Besides her strong Cuban accent, that is inaudible to my ears, they notice her beauty, her grace, her class, but also her strength.

Simply having a baby does not make one a mom. Being a mom means you love, nurture, and prepare your children for life, and all that it entails. Well, my mom has certainly done that and more. I thank God for her everyday single day, as I’m blessed and honored to call her Mom.
Mothers, love, encourage, & inspire your children. For those of you who are fortunate enough to still have your mom in your life, let her know how much you love and appreciate her every day, not just on Mother's Day.

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