Love Makes a Family

Biologically speaking, everyone has a mother. Relationally speaking, not so.

I have often times wondered how it must feel to find out you were adopted, or to grow up with the knowledge that your biological parents abandoned you.

I wonder how I would help my child deal with these feeling if I were to adopt. And it is this, "Love makes a family."

A giant standing ovation should go out to all the mothers of the world. The most over-worked, under-acknowledged volunteer position on the planet. I applaud you and recognize your contribution to our culture, society, and the future of our world.

But standing o's should also go out to all the grandmothers, aunts, step-mothers, older sisters, foster parents, and adoptive parents as well. Thankless heroes who are raising someone else's children because the biological mother isn't there to help, due to an endless list of possible reasons.

Love and honor your mother today. And if she's not in your life, then honor the women of influence that have helped shape your life in a positive way. Besides the women mentioned above that could also include a school teacher or a member of the clergy or a family friend or an in-law.

Let love be the gift you give this Mother's Day because love makes a family.