What Makes a Mother?

As Mother’s Day arrives each year, we’re reminded to pause and reflect on the immeasurable impact of mothers. But what makes a mother? Is it biology? Birth? A name on a certificate? Or is it something deeper—something felt rather than defined?

The truth is, motherhood transcends genetics. It lives in the everyday acts of nurturing, guiding, protecting, and loving—often quietly, always powerfully. A mother is the one who shows up. Who listens. Who believes in you when you can’t believe in yourself.

She might be the woman who raised you from birth, or the one who stepped into your life when you needed her most. She could be a grandmother who held the family together, a foster mom who gave you safety, an aunt who loved you fiercely, or even a mentor who mothered your spirit through the hardest seasons of life.

Motherhood is not a title—it’s a role, a relationship, a radical act of care.

It’s the late-night phone call answered without hesitation.
It’s the note in the lunchbox.
It’s the steady encouragement whispered before a big leap.
It’s the fierce protection, the endless patience, the kind of love that builds futures.

So this Mother’s Day, we honor all who mother—biological moms, adoptive moms, stepmoms, chosen moms, grandmothers, big sisters, mentors, and caretakers. Those who offer warmth, wisdom, and presence. Those who choose love, every single day.

To all the mothers in all their beautiful forms—thank you. You are seen. You are cherished. You are celebrated.