Mother’s Day is an annual occasion which celebrates a mother’s contributions to her family life, and although motherhood is challenging, having children is one of the greatest joys that can be experienced.
This was the general sentiment expressed yesterday, when Sunday Stabroek took to downtown Georgetown to interview a few hard working mothers who make a living for themselves and their families through vending.
For Kim Maison, being pampered on Mother’s Day is not an option; at least not until her children are all grown. The mother of five related that four of her children are still pursuing their education and her eldest, a father of four, lives abroad, and so the responsibility of celebrating Mother’s Day will rest solely on her shoulders. “I don’t mind, I am looking forward to be pampered in the future by my children cause they know everything I do is for them,” she commented.
Maison further related that watching her children grow up is one of her favourite experiences as a mother, and although motherhood will always remain a challenge for her, she has never once regretted becoming a mother.
She disclosed that her mother has taught and given her a lot of advice when it comes to motherhood. She went on to say that observing how hard working her mother was while growing up has inspired her to be the same, and following in her mother’s footsteps, she has managed to teach her children to fear God.
Sandra Peters, a single parent and a mother of four, voiced similar thoughts. She disclosed that throughout her life, she was subjected to a lot of suffering and so motherhood for her was more than challenging. She said that there will always be ups and downs but she believes in the power of prayer. She related that that all of her children are grown, except for one, who is studying at the University of Guyana.
Her occupation as a vendor has helped maintain her family throughout the years, since leaving her husband, who constantly subjected her to verbal abuse. However, she remains thankful for the experience of having children.
According to Roxanne George, a mother of two, growing up without a mother was hard, but despite that, she has quite a few good experiences with other women she calls “mom” and appreciates everything they have done for her.
She says she loves all of them dearly, and her experiences with these kind-hearted women have made her a better person. In relation to her children, she says learning from those before her, her experience with her children was a blessing and as a mother, she has mastered the art of patience.
George went on to say that she loves spending time with her children and tries to spend as much time as possible. Her favourite activities with the children include taking them to church and on outings, along with assisting them with their studies. “It’s a pleasure being a mother,” she stated.
Her advice to parents is to be patient and understanding with their children. “Things will happen to our kids and parents need to learn to listen to the children point of view,” she said.
Another mom, however, said that she doesn’t celebrate Mother’s Day, as her children are too young and her husband recently left the country. However, she opined that hopefully one day, she will be able to enjoy the celebrations.
The mother of two explained that she is not really “fussy” about the occasion, as she is basically alone with her two kids, but regardless of that, she loves being a mother and can’t see herself without her children.
