The Jewish authorities wanted to confirm the healing of a man who was born blind by Jesus, and summoned his parents and enquired them. These parents demonstrate some key mothering qualities that are relevant for us today. They in fact exemplify ‘mothering parenting.’ Based on the text here are the characteristics of ‘mothering parenting.’
1. The mothering parents always know their children and acknowledge openly the ‘sights’ and (in)sights of their children.
2. The mothering parents always protect their children, like the hen gathers her chicks under her wings, sheltering them from all dangers and traps of the society.
3. The mothering parents celebrate the confidence of their children, respect their views and reviews and allow them to speak for themselves when they come of age.
4. The mothering parents break open all power imbalances among them and their children, recognising children as equal partners, by listening to them and caring for them in love.
5. The mothering parents are farsighted, providing a cover to their children and preparing them to face the realities of their world and times courageously.
6. The mothering parents reiterate to their children to stand up for their rights, to speak up against any form of injustices and to celebrate the gift of life in all circumstances.
‘Mothering parenting’ is about being guided and led by the Mothering God in nurturing and caring for those seeking love in life. By which, I mean to say that mothering is not just limited to a particular gender, nor is a virtue that comes with biological child birthing, but it is about celebrating the mothering qualities in human beings and in the creation. 'Mothering parenting' also invites us to be sensitive to those who have lost their mothers & spouses, those who are single, and to those who are struggling to make a home and a living for their dear ones. ‘Mothering parenting’ also contests all attempts that commercialise ‘Mother’s Day’ and calls us to celebrate the gift of love that binds all relationships.
Let us also be mindful for Mothering Sunday can be a difficult day for some people and uphold them in prayer.
Today let us give thanks to all who have a mothering presence in our lives and may the Mothering God empower each of us to love one another and make our world a better place to live.
@rajpatta
19.03.2023
Mothering Sunday 2023
Pic courtesy: https://mothership.sg/2023/03/botanic-gardens-hen-protecting-chicks-rain/
2 comments:
Thanks for the blessed message Anna !
Amen!!
Post a Comment