Reflections on Motherhood

Today is a very special day for two very important reasons.

Today is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. As I sat in Mass earlier today, I heard the Gospel reading in which the Angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will miraculously conceive a son. But not just any son, The Son. Mary was scared. (In fact, I'd go so far as to say that she was probably terrified. Pregnancy out of wedlock was just "not done" back then.) But, do you know what her response was? "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." (Luke 1:38) Wow.

How many times, when I have been faced with difficulty in my life, have I simply lifted my eyes to heaven and said "Lord, may it be done to me according to your will." Honestly, I can't think of many. More often, I find myself wondering why God's will is so different from mine. What an amazing example of motherhood - Mary, scared and alone, knew that God would care for her and for His Son. "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Amen to that.

In addition to reflecting on the example of motherhood and faith as exemplified by Mary, there is another example of motherhood and faith that is important to me today. Today, my Grammy Kowalczyk turns 94. My Grammy has lived an amazing life, and I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful memories with her. Now, I look at the pictures of Abigail with her Great Grandma, and I know that she, too, is blessed to know this feisty little Polish woman who shows everyone how to live a life filled with love for God and for family. May God bless Maria Kowalczyk today, on her 94th birthday. While we're not there yet, the Ngs will be in Bergen very soon and can't wait to give birthday hugs to the cutest little Grammy (and Great Grammy) ever!

So, today I am inspired. I am inspired by Mary, the Mother of God. I am inspired by her willingness to trust in God's plan. And I am inspired by my Grammy. I am inspired by her faith and her life and, yes, her willingness to also trust in God's plan. Two amazing examples of motherhood to inspire me today and all days.