Dearest Mommas,
I think I always wanted to be a Momma. I started babysitting when I was 10 years old and I remember wanting to have a life like that. And now, how lucky am I? To be living this life with a wonderful husband and two delightful boys. To care for my babies and watch as they explore and grow into these uniquely perfect individuals. To see my heart expand again and again to a capacity I could not even fathom before babies. At then end of the day, usually smelling like breastmilk and most likely covered in some kind of baby bodily fluid, I sigh and am overwhelmed with gratitude for this life as a Momma. This exhaustingly wonderful life. Thank you to all the Mommas in my life who have helped me find my passion and make supporting families in a variety of ways my life’s work. To the Mommas who allowed me to care for their children, who honored me with the request to attend their births, who trusted me to ease the difficulties in their bodies and minds through yoga and meditation, who asked for guidance or assistance on this difficult journey–I am full of love for each of you and humbled by the amazing, endless, often thankless work you do as a Momma.
To my student and doula client Mommas: You never cease to amaze me–over a hundred degrees outside or in the middle of a blizzard, time and again, you show up on your mat and share your practice with me. Your dedication and gratitude keep me coming back and inspire me to continue learning, so I can support you more fully. And to those of you who have allowed me to witness the moments when you have welcomed your babies into the world, you have given me the most wonderful gift and I will hold you and your babies in my heart always. Mommas, you are powerful beyond measure. You have many choices to make as a mother. I truly believe there is no right answer, but that we all need to search our hearts and find what works best for you and your family. There is evidence to support various views, but every family and every baby is different. Trust your inner wisdom. Many Mommas these days do not have family nearby and we must create our village. When it gets overwhelming, because it will, know that there are many people who would love to help you. Please let us help you. You are loved more than you could possibly know.
To dear Wendy: I miss you everyday. I wish you could meet your second grandson. He’s mellow and lovely, just like you were. It would not surprise me if he began talking in your beautiful English accent. Among so many other things, thank you for showing me that you do not need to raise your voice for children to listen. I hope to get better at that. Love to you, wherever you are.
To my own beautiful Momma: Thank you for all the love and kindness you have shown me. You have taught me so much about selflessness, generosity, taking the high road and compassionate care of those in need. Thank you for showing me that a woman really can have it all, with a successful career and a happy home life. I would not be half the mother I am without you as a model. I love you.
From this Momma to all Mommas everywhere, I send to you the hopes that I sent to my own babies throughout pregnancy and through all time, to all babies, Mommas, partners and all beings everywhere.
May you be safe and protected
May you be healthy in body and mind.
May you be joyful.
May you live with ease and be at peace.
So much to love to you on this Mother’s Day and everyday,
Aimee
My Love Letter to Mommas Everywhere
My Perfect Birth