A mother’s work is never done, never easy, and never celebrated enough. It’s not uncommon to hear people describe their mom as “The Best Mom Ever” and proudly present her with a coffee cup or offer to inscribe her name on a trophy. But for many people, Mother’s Day can be a difficult day, filled with emotion, struggle, and maybe even heartbreak. For that reason, this year we want to try to honor all the ways this complicated day affects people.

For some, this is your first Mother’s Day without your mom. We’ve heard so many stories of loss this past year and our hearts are with you as you find new traditions to continue celebrating the woman who gave you life. Whether you plant flowers in her honor, enjoy brunch at her favorite restaurant, or spend an afternoon on her favorite lake, we know she is in your thoughts on this day more than others.

For the moms of little ones who are wondering if the real gift might be some quiet time alone, we see you. We know you’re exhausted and have run out of ideas for what to cook for dinner. Know that you inspire us. This year, we send you all our restorative energy wishes and have our fingers crossed you get the nap you so greatly deserve.

For the moms who will be celebrating via Zoom because geography prevents a physical hug, we are ready and waiting to step into that gap. Every single person in our office has experienced this and we would love to meet you for coffee, hear about your kids’ adventures, and give you the hug they themselves aren’t able to deliver this year.

For the foster and adoptive moms who have committed to opening your hearts and homes, we believe you are single-handedly changing the world. Your love is making a difference in the most tangible way imaginable, and we are in awe of your willingness to risk – sacrifice, even! – your own comfort each and every day.

For the women who thought they’d be a mom by now, but that isn’t how life has played out, we know how heartbreaking this day can be for you. We know you may be tempted to stay home, avoid social media, and dodge the awkward sympathy that may come from well-meaning friends and family. You are not forgotten and you are not invisible. Be encouraged to give yourself the self-care you need today, whatever that may be.

To the mommas whose babies are waiting for you in Heaven, we grieve with you. We know that however briefly you held them, they will always be in your heart, and you are no less important on this day. We would dare not try to suggest that we know all you have been through or even begin to imagine the pain you have endured, so we won’t offer empty platitudes. You are in our thoughts and hearts more than ever on this day.

And for those of you for whom this day evokes painful memories, we wish you nurturing relationships to help heal the hurts and mend your hearts.

Wherever your heart is this Mother’s Day, we want you to know we are grateful for you, we are here if you need a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, and we are looking forward to many years of celebrating life’s triumphs and heartaches with you as friends.

To all the women who have offered motherly wisdom and guidance into our lives, we want to wish you a very happy Mother’s Day.