News of Suz: "Are we not all mothers?"

I have been thinking about this concept a lot this week. I think with Mother's Day being tomorrow, the birth of a new nephew to the family, and teacher appreciation week, I have contemplated and reflected the role of a righteous mother.

Never in my life have I yearned to be a mother as much as I do now. The desire has always been there, but the desires strengthens each year as I mature. Additionally, I am more able to recognize the amazing women in my life who have had a profound influence on me. My gratitude swells within my heart as I think about the myriads of women who have touched my heart and soul throughout the years.

I think of my own mother: her consistent and steady love. Her reassurance that everything will be ok and to trust. Her laughing at my crazy stories or quips. Her amazing trust in the Lord. Her quiet sense of humor. Her willingness to serve people and to be the peacemaker. I can't watch Fox News without thinking of mom!

I think of my sisters who have mothered me since the day I was born: taking me on outings, writing me notes of encouragement and love, making and buying thoughtful gifts. Heart-to-hearts at Mimi's, in the car, or in the living room of their own homes. Thank you, sisters, for allowing me to partake of mothering by vicariously living through your day-to-day lives as busy moms. I know trials of motherhood are real. I see the difference you make in your families. And you are all amazing mothers.

I think of my wonderful sister-in-laws. They joined our family later but have been great assets to the family in their own, unique way. From loving my brothers, to teaching me new skills, to being strong, righteous mothers who sacrifice for their children and families; I am indeed grateful for their influence and example. love them and am grateful for their friendship.

I think of my grandmas. I don't remember Grandma Rytting too much. But I know she loved me and that she was selfless. Grandma Baer I was closer to, due to proximity. Her wit, poems, sass, and service remind me that you can be righteous and interesting. I miss my Grandmas.

I think of my young women's leaders--married and not married. Thanks for loving me and valuing me. Thanks for teaching me the ways of the Gospel and putting up with my boy crazy ways. Thanks for the outings, the young women's lessons--formal or informal--the friendship. Much of your wisdom has stayed with me all of these years.

I think of my teachers who gave me confidence in my abilities, who allowed me to shine, who believed in me, who challenged my thinking, and expanded my horizons. I hope that I can be that way with my own students.

I think of my girlfriends. Past and present roommates, mission companions, visiting teachees and teachers, ward members, and coworkers, and good friends. They inspire me to be a better person. Their strength to do what's right and to live life to the fullest has inspired me to enjoy the journey. They have taught me to be strong. To move forward. To serve. To be happy. To have fun. And to stretch myself. They have comforted me, laughed with me, and hugged me. I am grateful for their friendship.

Like I said, this desire to be a mother is strong. I empathize and appreciate the words of Sherri Dew who wrote the article, "Are We Not All Mothers?" in the October conference of 2001. She said:

For reasons known to the Lord, some women are required to wait to have children. This delay is not easy for any righteous woman. But the Lord’s timetable for each of us does not negate our nature. Some of us, then, must simply find other ways to mother. And all around us are those who need to be loved and led.

As daughters of our Heavenly Father, and as daughters of Eve, we are all mothers and we have always been mothers. And we each have the responsibility to love and help lead the rising generation. How will our young women learn to live as women of God unless they see what women of God look like, meaning what we wear, watch, and read; how we fill our time and our minds; how we face temptation and uncertainty; where we find true joy; and why modesty and femininity are hallmarks of righteous women? How will our young men learn to value women of God if we don’t show them the virtue of our virtues?

Although I yearn to be a mother now, I cannot doubt that my current mission as a teacher, friend, daughter, roommate, and aunt is vital to my progression in the present. I am grateful that I have opportunities in my own way to "mother" my students. I am grateful for what they teach me. I also adore my nieces and nephews and have loved seeing them grow up over the years. I learn so much from their examples and nature.

Are we not all mothers? Indeed we are. Thank you, women, who have been and are righteous example in my life. May we continue to mother in whatever sphere we are in; for it is a noble and divine calling.

Happy Mother's Day!