May 12, 2019

White Dog and the White Dog Army greeted me with a breakfast table set with red roses and warm from the oven bread. Both were wonderful but what brought me to tears was that each came up in turn, looked into my eyes, kissed my face and rested their heads against me...no better Happy Mother's Day wish was ever expressed.

I looked across my Army. I said to the group, "My White Dog Army fills my heart and makes this momma so proud of each and every one of you...how far each of you has come, and the depth of love that bonds our family together. You are my blessings and my anchor. Thank you for each finding your way to me, to us, to share our lives."

As we sipped coffee and enjoyed breakfast, I thought about all the people out there who deserve recognition for stepping up to the plate and giving their all raising and uplifting another being. Isn't that the essence of good mothering? Protecting, nurturing, repairing, and expanding the hearts and minds into compassionate resources?

Foster and rescue parents do this. Our incredible friend who with her husband just completed the adoption process of three birth siblings to form loving family did this. An older person who mentors the young...volunteers for youth groups and homeless kids...advocates for the victims...single fathers who go to dance lessons and have their nails "done" do this. Others who step in to provide what nature did not and to provide comfort, shelter, safety and healing do this. Motherhood isn't about the birth canal, age,  or gender...it is about the heart.

White Dog validated my point. "So many times, momma, I have heard you say things like I know I am not your mom but think about this, or you can't go all day without eating here is some cheese and crackers. We all groan at being momma-nagged but secretly, there is a comfort in knowing someone cares that much."

We know LOTS of incredible mommas and understand that tears come with smiles as does wondering whether we are doing the right thing. Hear us when we encourage you to trust your instincts; your efforts are seen clearly in their magnificence.

For today the White Dog asks to honor all mommas in a special way. Take a moment to "momma" someone. Call and check in. Give gentle advice. Ask somehow how they are feeling. Share and exchange. Mostly, just tell someone you believe in them. 

Believe us, it will leave a warm feeling...and this is OUR momma moment. Have a wonderful day.