MAGICAL MOMS

In this month of Mother’s Day, it’s nice to cherish our moms again, honour the memories of a mother, and celebrate our own motherhood. A mother’s love is peace. It does not need to be acquired nor does it need to be earned.

Raising children is a lot like rowing together in a flat-bottomed boat. It is not always easy. A mother’s relationship with her child begins when she first meets that fresh bundle. Raising that bundle requires a lot of energy, wisdom and patience. And just when we think the hardest part is over, we have to release our chicks that we raised with so much love and care to fly into the world.

My heart overflows with gratitude for the privilege of motherhood and the privilege of being able to hold my children in my arms.

Three things are necessary for successful motherhood. The unbreakable basket of our specially woven love, our waterproof example and the greatness to let our children loose between the reeds of life, so that they can live their own humanity.

LYNETTE STRYDOM, GQEBERHA

Mothers-in-law generally have a notorious reputation as critical and interfering people. Their judgement and criticism, no matter how small, can cut and leave deep wounds that will damage a marriage for a lifetime.

Fortunately my mother-in-law is a complete delight. Carol is in her eighties now, a smallish woman but make no mistake, she’s a packet of dynamite.

Fools and snobs get nowhere with her. But her flip-side is a marvel to behold. When she considers you well-mannered, down-to-earth and likeable she will move mountains to assist you.

Carol has a great sense of humour and her laughter never fails to uplift the spirit. Very early on it was her belief never to interfere in our marriage. If she and her late husband did not feel welcome, they would stay away. But being such wonderful people how could I not fling my doors open to them?

My children love their gran. When they were born I told my mother-in-law they also belong to her. “Treat them as you would your own children.” That’s where the close bond was formed. Today I consider myself very fortunate and happy to have Carol Smith as my mother-in-law. COLIN JANTJIES, EMAIL