Mothers who have lost custody of one or more children, mothers who have had a child die or mothers who are separated from their children may all see Mother's Day as a day that is best forgotten. Recent conversations with women regarding Mother's Day have led me to believe that women face many difficult decisions in life. Mothers have told me that their child's future is very important to them, that they hope their children will be supported and happy, that they find pleasure and joy in their lives. Many mothers resent the overwhelming anguish which goes into making these decisions. Planning is very important, yet a mother feels saddened that the future of her role as mother to her children is uncertain.
Mothers possess a strong urge to protect and comfort their children.
For a mother with a sick child, or a dying child, a strong need to make it better and alleviate the pain is felt. A tribute to strength Mother's Day is also a day to recognize and celebrate the strength and courage women possess, and express the appreciation for the sacrifice that we, as women, make for benefit of others. Partners of lesbian mothers and lesbian mothers themselves often feel undervalued by society because of the stereotype of traditional roles. Society needs to encourage lesbian mothers by affording them the reassurance and understanding that they, too, are mothers who are valued and supported. As nurturers, women tend to prioritize others first.