A mother is at once teacher, friend, nurturer and guide... and these are some of the things, plus more, that make her worthy of adulation. Motherhood is no walk in the park; it is as trying as it is rewarding, humbling, joyful and intense. Today SO celebrates Mother's Day with reflections from fab mums - real women who face the awesome challenge of moulding lives and futures daily, and who fall more in love with the task at every moment...
Motherhood is a wonderful experience... much more than I ever imagined. In a word, it's awesome. My first thought when I saw Sule was, 'Why did I wait this long?' Had I known the moment would feel the way it did, I would have had my first child a long time ago. I am still in the honeymoon phase... still in love, still in awe. And though I'm acclimatising to the sleepless nights, I am happy to feed him 10 times per day if that's how it is. Having now had a child of my own, I have a newfound appreciation for my own mother, and I must say she has been absolutely amazing... there for me every step of the way through life, and now with my son. She taught me everything I need to know, especially about breastfeeding (she's a lactation specialist), and my mother-in-law has been equally supportive to me as a new mother. I am still coming to terms with motherhood, but I love it, and I'm happy to grow as the learning continues.
Ali Lue-Migoko - fashion designer, with 11-month-old son Israel
Words can't express the joy that Israel Lue Migoko (Izzy) has brought to my life. He is such an amazing blessing from God and I will train him up in the righteousness of the Lord as my mother taught me. I love hearing him laugh and seeing his beautiful smile when he awakes in the morning. Izzy is a funny little guy with such a mature personality already! My experience as a mum is awesome... I couldn't ask for a sweeter baby boy.
Angelie Martin-Spencer - drennaLUNA client and marketing manager, with daughter Anna, eight, and three-year-old son Luke
What a joy motherhood is! Being a mum is one of the most challenging roles of any woman's life. You have the tremendous responsibility to shape the life of a person, and this duty, this obligation, this task, is HUGE. You don't have the luxury to redo it either, so you have to get it right, or as close to it as you can. I must admit it is sometimes daunting for me because I'm responsible for shaping two lives, but I give it 110 per cent and hope for the absolute best, because I want my children to be the best people they can be. Compassionate, caring, happy, successful and loved. Luke, at three, is demanding "his" time, and still developing his personality, while Anna is a sweet spirit.
I inherited my drive to shape my children properly from my own mother who raised four daughters, and she is as stern as she is funny. She is a stickler for discipline, and does it as easily as she makes you laugh. She loves children especially when they're well-mannered, well-behaved and disciplined, and she made sure that my sisters and I were disciplined and mannerly. I carry the lessons I've learnt from her with me always, and now pass them on to Anna and Luke every day, always reinforcing in them the importance of being polite, considerate and well behaved. Truthfully, I find I'm a bit hard on Anna sometimes (maybe because she's older), and I want so much for her to be the best she can, but I recently saw a quote in b3 Caribbean Magazine that read, "Don't let yourself be so concerned with raising a good kid that you forget you already have one." How profound! Talk about an 'aha!' moment!
Ann-Marie Vaz - philanthropist, with daughters Victoria 10, and Gabrielle 16
Motherhood has been the most life-altering, awesome, profound, humbling and meaningful experience of my life. It is also the most challenging and rewarding thing I have ever experienced. I cherish all my experiences - the good and the not so good, but nothing has made me stronger, grow and strive to become a better person as being a mother. Motherhood taught me the true meaning of love in its purest, most unselfish and unconditional form. This unique lifelong journey has been my greatest blessing, and I thank God every day for my five children plus the others that I love and care for. My beloved mum taught me the true meaning of unconditional love. She held my hands, guiding me throughout life, and though this year will be 20 years since she passed away, I still miss her terribly, her love and her life lessons will remain with me forever. She laid a solid foundation for me, making me the lady and mother that I am today, and I hope I have been just as incredible to my children as she has been to me. May her soul rest in peace, and may my grandma, who has also mothered me, have a very happy Mother's Day.
Hillary Evelyn - sales and distribution manager, Smart Mobile Solutions, with four-year-old son Austin
Motherhood is a roller coaster... cliché but true. You never know what to expect, no matter the number of books you read, Internet browsing you do, or advice you get from other mums... none of those can prepare you for the real thing. Being a mother is a learning ground, and I have learnt a great deal, but the most important lesson comes from my mother, who taught me to be God-fearing. She taught me that you have to be a praying mother. Trust God in everything and love your child no matter what, but do not spoil him. These lessons have helped me tremendously and I hold them close to my heart, because in every situation when I'm in doubt, I acknowledge the Creator. I enjoy being a mother and I can't wait for the other lessons that will come.
Kimisha Walker - managing director, Adam and Eve Day Spa, with two-year-old son Giovanni and six-year-old daughter Kimora
Motherhood really shows the strength of a woman. My mum was a single parent, and we never wanted for anything. She doubled both roles very well, making sure all my siblings and I were structured and grounded. As children we see things, but are unable to fully understand and appreciate them until we are adults. My mum taught me values... how to stay true, love and care for people, and never to envy others for their success because you will never know the trials they had to go through to acquire it. She also taught me to never look down on anyone, as that may be the very person to help you one day. She taught me to remain humble... but not stupid, and to give because it will come back to you. I'm very emotional and passionate about my mum for being a friend, a spiritual leader, the go-to person if you need a prayer warrior, and most of all for just being there and never giving up.
She has impacted my life a lot, and now as a mother of two beautiful children (and my husband... smile), I can see her in me. I hear myself imparting the same knowledge she bestowed on me. I love to hear my children's laughter, I am so blessed, so abundantly rich with a loving family. My children keep me motivated and driven. I give them love, I teach them unity, I tell them to be respectful and I'm sure this formula works. As a mother I want the best for them. It doesn't mean spoiling them rotten, but giving them a foundation they can grow with like my mum did for me. Motherhood is a blessing, I would never say it is easy, but I'm thankful to God for this amazing opportunity.
Lesli Prendergast - manager, electronic product delivery at Scotiabank with eight-year-old daughter Morgan and stepchildren Malik, 17, Sabrina, 16, and Rhea, 12
Motherhood really allows you to understand the feeling of being in love, and you are always so focused on making your children happy and stable. They are a part of you, and you learn more with each stage. My mother taught me that the gift of love is powerful, and it cures all negativity... something I practise each day of my life as a mother and stepmother. I have learnt a lot from my mum, and I am sure to instil those values as well as adapt to the changing times. My children must have manners. They must be respectful and show basic courtesies at all times. Raising a child is a lot of work because you are grooming an adult for the world. It is important for me to lead a balanced life in all aspects so that my daughter can understand how important it is to work hard, have save some 'me' time and still fulfil my role as mother, and I try to involve her in my activities as much as possible.
Being a stepmum for me is just as important, and it takes more adjustment as the children didn't choose me... yet I came into their lives. They already have good mums, so they really don't need me. I've learnt through that experience that you have to give them room to trust you and come to you on their own. Don't try to be their mother, but provide additional support. My stepchildren are all magnificent individuals and I love them — Donisha, Matthew, Ingemar, Peter-Shane, Morgan, Malik, Sabrina and Rhea — I see them as my own. I teach them, and my own daughter, to set their ideals very high. I ensure that they are all comfortable and happy, they should always feel a sense of belonging at home, and be assured that they are loved. I owe all this to my own mum, who has taught me the values of being independent and hard-working, to be true to myself, and to never compromise my values. She has always been there for me, and yet she knows when to step back. Her parental commitment is unwavering, even today... and that is what I try to be as a mother and stepmother.
Marsha Robotham - marketing executive with six-year-old son Zaine
I remember when Zaine was born and my mother said to me, 'Now you'll know what true love is', and it's true... there is no greater love than a mother's love for her child. Love and sacrifice are the two most resounding lessons I have taken from my mum. You find different ways of exhibiting your love and finding ways to adapt to your child's needs every day, with no qualms. A quote I'm familiar with states, "The strongest evidence of love is sacrifice", and my mum has made huge sacrifices to afford me great opportunities, most of which she was unable to have for herself. This is something I will take from her. I will do the same for Zaine, allowing him to have equal opportunities or greater than those my mother afforded me. And while I admit that some experiences are extremely unfamiliar, motherhood is definitely a hands-on learning experience. It is very rewarding and I enjoy every minute of it.
Katia Almeida - LIME procurement manager, marketing, with daughters Effstratia, 20, and one-year-old Shiloh
Being a mother of two daughters that are twenty years apart has taught me that motherhood never changes. It is constantly a joy and sorrow, pride and shame... a 'thrill-a-minute' experience and a responsibility where the nervousness and excitement never stop... no matter how old my daughters get. I love every second of it.
Omera Cobran - Chartered Accountant with son Kaleb
Motherhood was a dream come true for me. I had always wanted to have children, but because of unexpected problems, we never knew if I was ever going to conceive... and then I did! But I soon realised that no matter how much I had wished for it, dreamed of it and thought about being a mother growing up, nothing compares to the real thing: actually giving birth, giving life and love to a little being. I knew I would love my child, but I don't think I really knew what love was until I had him. He has taught me the meaning of unconditional love. I never lose my patience with him; I can never get too angry. I love him and will love him always, and that was something that not even marriage could teach me. But just like marriage, motherhood comes with challenges. It is such an emotional journey. That part I truly was not prepared for. I want to protect him from all pain, sadness and misery... and it hurts me that I cannot. I feel his pain right there with him. When he is sick, I want to take the sickness away and make him better right away...but I can't. So instead I give him what I can: love... unconditional love. A listening ear, soothing words, a big hug, and lots of kisses. I thank God every day for the enormous responsibility and tremendous blessing of being a mother.
Sadé Powell - marketing strategy officer, National Commercial Bank, with two-month-old daughter Ziva
For me, motherhood is the hardest and happiest experience life offers. It's the most amazing lesson in unconditional love, patience, selflessness and gratitude. I'm no longer the master of my universe - my daughter is, and I am inexplicably grateful for my supportive partner, my family, friends and Babycenter — an online resource for pregnancy and parenting (smile).
Time usually shows us that we're generally not as smart as our parents, and I usually say, "If at first you don't succeed, do what your mum told you". My mother taught me, in words and in actions, that doing the right thing will always make you happy, and that has been especially important to how my life has turned out thus far, and the choices I will make as a mother. She also taught me that guiding and supporting your child's individuality is the most effective way to counter adverse external influences and build self-esteem... something I will definitely encourage in and practise with Ziva as she grows.
Tanya Burke-Wright - attorney-at-law, with 11-month-old daughter Nyah Zwe
For me, motherhood is synonymous with the words miracle and selflessness. Each moment with Nyah is a reminder that life is a miracle. My simple prayer throughout my pregnancy was to be blessed with a healthy, normal baby. God answered me with Nyah... all that and 'brawta'. The sparkle in her eyes provides me with daily confirmation that God continues to perform miracles. When she laughs or smiles, in that moment I experience heaven on earth. Motherhood is not all smiles and laughter. Nothing in my life had prepared me for this experience, apart from maybe seeing the sun shining in the middle of the rain. It is a very long (and sometimes overwhelming) roller coaster ride of selflessness, sacrifice, responsibilty and re-education.
Yodit Getachew-Hylton - honorary consul of Ethiopia, with two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Nyle
My daughter is almost three years old now, and so far, I have been fully enjoying the motherhood experience and learning a lot from it. Watching Nyle grow is one of the most wonderful things to ever happen in my life, and it is also helping me to appreciate my own mother who would always say, "You will know only when you have your own kids"... how right she was! She has taught me invaluable lessons about work, marriage, parenting and relationships, but perhaps the most important lesson of all is to understand that my daughter has her own unique personality, with interests and talents that should be nurtured rather than changed.
Making my child happy, healthy, safe and loved is my most important responsibility as a parent. Of importance as well is my Ethiopian culture and heritage, and I am happy that she is benefiting from her multicultural heritage. I teach her the Amharic language and expose her to Ethiopian history, food and the Ethiopian Orthodox religion... she is absorbing these lessons like a sponge. Nyle and I have fun together, and we both love to dress in traditional Ethiopian clothes called the Habesha Kemis, as shown in these pictures.
Zandra Levy - child and family therapist, with 10-month-old son Zane
They say when a baby is born, so is a mother, and I agree, as I'm learning and growing more every day. Motherhood has given me a new sense of purpose. It has filled me with so much joy and love. I will admit that there are times when I feel so overwhelmed by the responsibilities, but then I remember what my mother taught me -- to have a relationship with the Lord (pray and trust Him always), and to love my child unconditionally. I am truly thankful for my great support system. My partner (his father) and my parents play such phenomenal roles in his life and mine that I am able to truly enjoy this motherhood experience.
Keron Ashley - office manager, Cowan's Electrical, with six-month-old daughter Rayonna
Keron — For me, motherhood is an 80-20 experience, with the 20 per cent being the challenging parts, like the sleepless nights or when I can't figure out why the baby is crying. Luckily my sister and I live together, so we both have an extra pair of hands and eyes in the raising of our children. For the most part, though, motherhood is fun, Keri-Shein is my bundle of joy and whenever I look into those little eyes, all the pain, weight gain (smile) and stress just vanish. I have learnt to appreciate my mum even more now, definitely... especially as a mother of twins. I love her dearly, even more now that I am a mummy too, and I thank her for raising me well and bringing my twin sister and me into the world.
Kerice Ashley - Visi Cooler Administrator, Wisynco with eight-month-old daughter Keri-Shein
Kerice — Motherhood has its ups and downs... it's challenging at times, and there are many sacrifices that have to be made but it is a generally wonderful experience when you're a mother, your child comes first always, but at the end of the day the love you have inside of you just shines through and manifests in the way that you love and raise your child. The first thing I've learnt as a mother is that you need help, you can't do it all alone, and I'm very grateful for my sister who has been there as a second mum. I have a new respect for mummy now because I realise how much work being a mother actually is, especially with my sister having a baby as well, because it feels as if we have twins. That really put things into perspective for me and made me wonder how mummy managed with both of us at once... even now, if Keri-Shein cries and I pick her up, Rayonna starts to cry too. They are bit jealous if one is getting more attention, so that must have been hard on my mother. I have also learnt a lot about sacrifice from her, and now by being a mother myself.
Michelle McNally - Business process manager, JMMB, with daughters Kayla, seven, (left) and Kimberley, 11
Motherhood has been fun, challenging and exciting and I now know what my own mother went through. The most rewarding moments for me would have to be seeing my daughters' smiles, and receiving their warm hugs and kisses, and I would definitely say that the most important lesson I've learnt from my mum is patience. I practise this important lesson by being an example to my own children. I always think about how I react to things, so that when they see it they learn from it and it's not negative, it's positive.
Jamelia Deperalto - office manager, Deperalto Orthodontics, with sons Joseph, six, and Jonathan, seven
I always say motherhood is perfection in chaos, especially for me, as a mother of boys. My boys are very close in age, so they are playmates. There is always noise, and it's always busy and high-energy and I never thought that I would one day see the beauty in that. When I'm away from it I miss it, and when I'm there, with their laughter, conversing and interacting...I am happy to be surrounded by it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I love watching them grow and learn... seeing my husband and myself in them, and being able to see the impact that we have had on their lives brings me great joy. Somebody once told me that love is having a child, and when I had my first, it really hit me, and then again with my second... there really is no greater love, and seeing and feeling their love each day makes me a better mother. It really makes me respect and understand my mum more as well, and she has taught me to be truly unselfish, which translates into how I am now as a parent, even sometimes without realising. I try to teach them that — how to be unselfish and considerate — because I know it will make them grow up to be better men. Motherhood is challenging, yes, but I love it.
Gillian Zacca - proprietor, OMG! Boutique with 15-month-old son Ryan
I think motherhood is a lesson in honesty, and I've learnt that from my mum, who is brutally honest (smiles). You learn to be honest with yourself, honest about your children and especially honest with your children. She also taught me that family is extremely important, and you should always cherish and keep in touch with family, as they are a part of you and will always be there for you, even when others aren't. I know I will see these lessons manifest in me even more as my son grows older... and I keep them in mind every day.
As a first-time mum, I have found the experience to be challenging, but it has also been great. Especially since I've learnt from my mother-in-law to let go a little and allow my son to explore rather than being too rigid.
As cliché as it sounds, I've learnt that there is no love greater than the love between a mother and her child.
The first time I saw him was such an awesome moment... so many thoughts went through my mind, and I was so overwhelmed with joy and awe that I just cried. My heart is so full when I get home after a long day and Ryan is there waiting to greet me with a big smile, a hug and a kiss. It really makes my day, and makes me realise that my mother's lesson on how important family really is, is the best lesson of all. She will do anything for her family, and I truly believe and fully understand that now, because I would do anything for my son.
Shani McGraham-Shirley - Fitness instructor/owner of Chai Studios, with seven-year-old son Thai and daughters India, eight, and Mali, three.
Motherhood is often seen as fairy tales and heavenly bliss with perfect babies who sleep through the nights, feed easily and smile all day long, or reading a parenting manual that has all the answers with everything that applies to you and your baby. Plus, mastering the balancing act between mother, wife and work while always maintaining the "fresh from the salon look"... then reality sinks in, and you realise none of the above applies to you. There is nothing perfect about motherhood. It's all trial and error. But the beauty of it all is that if one method doesn't work, you must "wheel an' come again". The first baby is an adjustment but manageable, life changes, but not drastically. The second baby was, for me, the biggest transition - you might as well give me a football team (laugh). This was where my struggle started. I struggled to maintain my sanity, to balance being a woman, a good mother, wife and employee, and after a while, something had to give.
After figuring out functioning with two children, I've found that child number three is relatively easy. It was at this point that I figured out the secret that worked for me - in order to be selfless I first had to become selfish. I had to focus on me first before my children, my husband or my work. If I found happiness and contentment with myself, I was then a happier, healthier and better person to everyone. We as mothers can only give so much; if we don't focus on ourselves... our spirituality, our sensuality, health and fitness, we will burn out very quickly.
Most persons think they have the best mother in the world, and I will admit to being one of those with this clichéd view. My mother has been such an inspiration to me on so many levels that to choose one seems impossible. She taught me how to parent a child while maintaining a friendship. How to keep the lines of communication wide open, without the threat of being judged, and how to be present at almost every performance, swim meet, doctor's appointment, etc. But the two most valuable lessons I've learnt from her are to truly love my children unconditionally, and the strength of a praying mother. With these lessons, she not only preached, but has led by example. Motherhood is a balancing act. It is doing the best one can do, loving your children unconditionally and letting go of the rest.
Kaysian Bourke - founder, SHINDIG: Concepts.design.décor, with two-year-old daughter Jazzmine and four-year-old son Matthew
I think when God decided to bless me with children; it was his way of exercising my patience. My children have taught me things I didn't even know about myself, and I am a better person for it. I now understand a mother's capacity to have and show unconditional love, not just to her own children, but to all others as well. My own mother, for example, is an amazing woman, she has taught me so much about life. How to be grateful, generous and resilient, she worked all her life to keep her children happy and will always give to a schoolgirl or a boy in need. I have learnt so much about my mother through myself, and the older my children get, the more I understand what she must have gone through when I was a child. I love her unconditionally, and through my own experiences and hers, I've learnt to never underestimate the experience of motherhood as a critical tool in preparing you for the world of work.
I personally believe that it should be listed under experience when applying for a job... it is hard work (smile). It takes adjustment and excellent time management — for me there is running a household, dropping off and picking the kids up from two different schools, taking them to all their extra-curricular activities, keeping them and my husband happy and comfortable and preparing healthy meals for them whilst running my own businesses — and in all of this you cannot afford to forget the simple things like even buying salt or milk (which I have done a few times). Sometimes it's when you are finally winding down after putting them to bed that you remember they have some elaborate school project that they brought home that particular week, like making a model of their school... which really means you have homework. And in all of that we as mothers can't forget to take some time for ourselves to look 'effortlessly fabulous' while doing it all (smile)... that is a must!
Matthew is a special child. He is attentive, funny, creative and smart. He also has a lot of energy, so patience... lots of patience, is definitely key. Jazzmine knows she is a princess and falls into that role perfectly, so between my husband, our nanny Patty, her grandparents and me, she makes sure we tend to her every need. I would never change any of that, though, because I genuinely enjoy spending time with my children. They are my world.
Anna-Kay Tomlinson - restaurateur, Miss T's Eatery, with seven-year-old son Liam and daughters Ashley (left), 18 and Lauren
As a mother of three children, one of whom has special needs, I must say that the balancing act of motherhood, running a business and being a wife is something I don't think I will ever perfect... but I truly love the challenges and rewards of it. My son Liam, who has Downs Syndrome, is truly a gift and blessing. He knits our family together with his love and joy, and he, in addition to my two daughters, has taught me unconditional love, patience and what it is to be humble. Special mums have special kids (smile).
Caroline Barton - attorney-at-law, with four-month-old daughter Monroe
The author of an article on motherhood that I recently read wrote, "I may have lost some spontaneity and free time, but success isn't built on stress and selfishness. Success can also be fuelled by a sense of purpose, especially when the stakes are raised." I couldn't agree more. I am still myself, just a better version with a greater purpose. Now more than ever I believe that there is no obstacle too large and no dream too impossible for me, because that is exactly what I will teach Monroe every day. Now more than ever I must practise what I preach.
Monroe was born on Martin Luther King Day, January 15, exactly nine months after her parents Caroline and Richard tied the knot — the plan was to start trying on the couple's first anniversary.
Three Generations
A very happy Mother's Day from our SO team to three generations of successful Jamaican women (from left): Regina Jansen, JD - Senior Trial Attorney, US Department of Justice; her sister Donna-Marie Manasseh, MD - Chief Division of Breast Surgery, Director Maimonides Breast Center Program, their grandmother Hurbilina Morrison - a 97-year-old retired nurse and their mum Cherry Manasseh - retired US Postal Service Executive Office worker.
Aisha Morgan - proprietor, Nettle & Moss, with three-month-old son Sule
YODIT GETACHEW-HYLTON
ANN-MARIE VAZ
MICHELLE MCNALLY
SHANI MCGRAHAM-SHIRLEY
OMERA COBRAN
TANYA BURKE-WRIGHT
(L-R) KERICE AND KERON ASHLEY
KAYSIAN BOURKE
AISHA MORGAN
GILLIAN ZACCA
ZANDRA LEVY
HILLARY EVELYN
LESLI PRENDERGAST
CAROLINE BARTON
ANGELIE MARTIN-SPENCER
Three Generations
KIMISHA WALKER
                   YODIT GETACHEW-HYLTON #slideshowtoggler, #slideshowtoggler a, #slideshowtoggler img {filter:none !important;zoom:normal !important}  1/17  |
Ali Lue-Migoko - fashion designer, with 11-month-old son Israel
Words can't express the joy that Israel Lue Migoko (Izzy) has brought to my life. He is such an amazing blessing from God and I will train him up in the righteousness of the Lord as my mother taught me. I love hearing him laugh and seeing his beautiful smile when he awakes in the morning. Izzy is a funny little guy with such a mature personality already! My experience as a mum is awesome... I couldn't ask for a sweeter baby boy.
Angelie Martin-Spencer - drennaLUNA client and marketing manager, with daughter Anna, eight, and three-year-old son Luke
What a joy motherhood is! Being a mum is one of the most challenging roles of any woman's life. You have the tremendous responsibility to shape the life of a person, and this duty, this obligation, this task, is HUGE. You don't have the luxury to redo it either, so you have to get it right, or as close to it as you can. I must admit it is sometimes daunting for me because I'm responsible for shaping two lives, but I give it 110 per cent and hope for the absolute best, because I want my children to be the best people they can be. Compassionate, caring, happy, successful and loved. Luke, at three, is demanding "his" time, and still developing his personality, while Anna is a sweet spirit.
I inherited my drive to shape my children properly from my own mother who raised four daughters, and she is as stern as she is funny. She is a stickler for discipline, and does it as easily as she makes you laugh. She loves children especially when they're well-mannered, well-behaved and disciplined, and she made sure that my sisters and I were disciplined and mannerly. I carry the lessons I've learnt from her with me always, and now pass them on to Anna and Luke every day, always reinforcing in them the importance of being polite, considerate and well behaved. Truthfully, I find I'm a bit hard on Anna sometimes (maybe because she's older), and I want so much for her to be the best she can, but I recently saw a quote in b3 Caribbean Magazine that read, "Don't let yourself be so concerned with raising a good kid that you forget you already have one." How profound! Talk about an 'aha!' moment!
Ann-Marie Vaz - philanthropist, with daughters Victoria 10, and Gabrielle 16
Motherhood has been the most life-altering, awesome, profound, humbling and meaningful experience of my life. It is also the most challenging and rewarding thing I have ever experienced. I cherish all my experiences - the good and the not so good, but nothing has made me stronger, grow and strive to become a better person as being a mother. Motherhood taught me the true meaning of love in its purest, most unselfish and unconditional form. This unique lifelong journey has been my greatest blessing, and I thank God every day for my five children plus the others that I love and care for. My beloved mum taught me the true meaning of unconditional love. She held my hands, guiding me throughout life, and though this year will be 20 years since she passed away, I still miss her terribly, her love and her life lessons will remain with me forever. She laid a solid foundation for me, making me the lady and mother that I am today, and I hope I have been just as incredible to my children as she has been to me. May her soul rest in peace, and may my grandma, who has also mothered me, have a very happy Mother's Day.
Hillary Evelyn - sales and distribution manager, Smart Mobile Solutions, with four-year-old son Austin
Motherhood is a roller coaster... cliché but true. You never know what to expect, no matter the number of books you read, Internet browsing you do, or advice you get from other mums... none of those can prepare you for the real thing. Being a mother is a learning ground, and I have learnt a great deal, but the most important lesson comes from my mother, who taught me to be God-fearing. She taught me that you have to be a praying mother. Trust God in everything and love your child no matter what, but do not spoil him. These lessons have helped me tremendously and I hold them close to my heart, because in every situation when I'm in doubt, I acknowledge the Creator. I enjoy being a mother and I can't wait for the other lessons that will come.
Kimisha Walker - managing director, Adam and Eve Day Spa, with two-year-old son Giovanni and six-year-old daughter Kimora
Motherhood really shows the strength of a woman. My mum was a single parent, and we never wanted for anything. She doubled both roles very well, making sure all my siblings and I were structured and grounded. As children we see things, but are unable to fully understand and appreciate them until we are adults. My mum taught me values... how to stay true, love and care for people, and never to envy others for their success because you will never know the trials they had to go through to acquire it. She also taught me to never look down on anyone, as that may be the very person to help you one day. She taught me to remain humble... but not stupid, and to give because it will come back to you. I'm very emotional and passionate about my mum for being a friend, a spiritual leader, the go-to person if you need a prayer warrior, and most of all for just being there and never giving up.
She has impacted my life a lot, and now as a mother of two beautiful children (and my husband... smile), I can see her in me. I hear myself imparting the same knowledge she bestowed on me. I love to hear my children's laughter, I am so blessed, so abundantly rich with a loving family. My children keep me motivated and driven. I give them love, I teach them unity, I tell them to be respectful and I'm sure this formula works. As a mother I want the best for them. It doesn't mean spoiling them rotten, but giving them a foundation they can grow with like my mum did for me. Motherhood is a blessing, I would never say it is easy, but I'm thankful to God for this amazing opportunity.
Lesli Prendergast - manager, electronic product delivery at Scotiabank with eight-year-old daughter Morgan and stepchildren Malik, 17, Sabrina, 16, and Rhea, 12
Motherhood really allows you to understand the feeling of being in love, and you are always so focused on making your children happy and stable. They are a part of you, and you learn more with each stage. My mother taught me that the gift of love is powerful, and it cures all negativity... something I practise each day of my life as a mother and stepmother. I have learnt a lot from my mum, and I am sure to instil those values as well as adapt to the changing times. My children must have manners. They must be respectful and show basic courtesies at all times. Raising a child is a lot of work because you are grooming an adult for the world. It is important for me to lead a balanced life in all aspects so that my daughter can understand how important it is to work hard, have save some 'me' time and still fulfil my role as mother, and I try to involve her in my activities as much as possible.
Being a stepmum for me is just as important, and it takes more adjustment as the children didn't choose me... yet I came into their lives. They already have good mums, so they really don't need me. I've learnt through that experience that you have to give them room to trust you and come to you on their own. Don't try to be their mother, but provide additional support. My stepchildren are all magnificent individuals and I love them — Donisha, Matthew, Ingemar, Peter-Shane, Morgan, Malik, Sabrina and Rhea — I see them as my own. I teach them, and my own daughter, to set their ideals very high. I ensure that they are all comfortable and happy, they should always feel a sense of belonging at home, and be assured that they are loved. I owe all this to my own mum, who has taught me the values of being independent and hard-working, to be true to myself, and to never compromise my values. She has always been there for me, and yet she knows when to step back. Her parental commitment is unwavering, even today... and that is what I try to be as a mother and stepmother.
Marsha Robotham - marketing executive with six-year-old son Zaine
I remember when Zaine was born and my mother said to me, 'Now you'll know what true love is', and it's true... there is no greater love than a mother's love for her child. Love and sacrifice are the two most resounding lessons I have taken from my mum. You find different ways of exhibiting your love and finding ways to adapt to your child's needs every day, with no qualms. A quote I'm familiar with states, "The strongest evidence of love is sacrifice", and my mum has made huge sacrifices to afford me great opportunities, most of which she was unable to have for herself. This is something I will take from her. I will do the same for Zaine, allowing him to have equal opportunities or greater than those my mother afforded me. And while I admit that some experiences are extremely unfamiliar, motherhood is definitely a hands-on learning experience. It is very rewarding and I enjoy every minute of it.
Katia Almeida - LIME procurement manager, marketing, with daughters Effstratia, 20, and one-year-old Shiloh
Being a mother of two daughters that are twenty years apart has taught me that motherhood never changes. It is constantly a joy and sorrow, pride and shame... a 'thrill-a-minute' experience and a responsibility where the nervousness and excitement never stop... no matter how old my daughters get. I love every second of it.
Omera Cobran - Chartered Accountant with son Kaleb
Motherhood was a dream come true for me. I had always wanted to have children, but because of unexpected problems, we never knew if I was ever going to conceive... and then I did! But I soon realised that no matter how much I had wished for it, dreamed of it and thought about being a mother growing up, nothing compares to the real thing: actually giving birth, giving life and love to a little being. I knew I would love my child, but I don't think I really knew what love was until I had him. He has taught me the meaning of unconditional love. I never lose my patience with him; I can never get too angry. I love him and will love him always, and that was something that not even marriage could teach me. But just like marriage, motherhood comes with challenges. It is such an emotional journey. That part I truly was not prepared for. I want to protect him from all pain, sadness and misery... and it hurts me that I cannot. I feel his pain right there with him. When he is sick, I want to take the sickness away and make him better right away...but I can't. So instead I give him what I can: love... unconditional love. A listening ear, soothing words, a big hug, and lots of kisses. I thank God every day for the enormous responsibility and tremendous blessing of being a mother.
Sadé Powell - marketing strategy officer, National Commercial Bank, with two-month-old daughter Ziva
For me, motherhood is the hardest and happiest experience life offers. It's the most amazing lesson in unconditional love, patience, selflessness and gratitude. I'm no longer the master of my universe - my daughter is, and I am inexplicably grateful for my supportive partner, my family, friends and Babycenter — an online resource for pregnancy and parenting (smile).
Time usually shows us that we're generally not as smart as our parents, and I usually say, "If at first you don't succeed, do what your mum told you". My mother taught me, in words and in actions, that doing the right thing will always make you happy, and that has been especially important to how my life has turned out thus far, and the choices I will make as a mother. She also taught me that guiding and supporting your child's individuality is the most effective way to counter adverse external influences and build self-esteem... something I will definitely encourage in and practise with Ziva as she grows.
Tanya Burke-Wright - attorney-at-law, with 11-month-old daughter Nyah Zwe
For me, motherhood is synonymous with the words miracle and selflessness. Each moment with Nyah is a reminder that life is a miracle. My simple prayer throughout my pregnancy was to be blessed with a healthy, normal baby. God answered me with Nyah... all that and 'brawta'. The sparkle in her eyes provides me with daily confirmation that God continues to perform miracles. When she laughs or smiles, in that moment I experience heaven on earth. Motherhood is not all smiles and laughter. Nothing in my life had prepared me for this experience, apart from maybe seeing the sun shining in the middle of the rain. It is a very long (and sometimes overwhelming) roller coaster ride of selflessness, sacrifice, responsibilty and re-education.
Yodit Getachew-Hylton - honorary consul of Ethiopia, with two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Nyle
My daughter is almost three years old now, and so far, I have been fully enjoying the motherhood experience and learning a lot from it. Watching Nyle grow is one of the most wonderful things to ever happen in my life, and it is also helping me to appreciate my own mother who would always say, "You will know only when you have your own kids"... how right she was! She has taught me invaluable lessons about work, marriage, parenting and relationships, but perhaps the most important lesson of all is to understand that my daughter has her own unique personality, with interests and talents that should be nurtured rather than changed.
Making my child happy, healthy, safe and loved is my most important responsibility as a parent. Of importance as well is my Ethiopian culture and heritage, and I am happy that she is benefiting from her multicultural heritage. I teach her the Amharic language and expose her to Ethiopian history, food and the Ethiopian Orthodox religion... she is absorbing these lessons like a sponge. Nyle and I have fun together, and we both love to dress in traditional Ethiopian clothes called the Habesha Kemis, as shown in these pictures.
Zandra Levy - child and family therapist, with 10-month-old son Zane
They say when a baby is born, so is a mother, and I agree, as I'm learning and growing more every day. Motherhood has given me a new sense of purpose. It has filled me with so much joy and love. I will admit that there are times when I feel so overwhelmed by the responsibilities, but then I remember what my mother taught me -- to have a relationship with the Lord (pray and trust Him always), and to love my child unconditionally. I am truly thankful for my great support system. My partner (his father) and my parents play such phenomenal roles in his life and mine that I am able to truly enjoy this motherhood experience.
Keron Ashley - office manager, Cowan's Electrical, with six-month-old daughter Rayonna
Keron — For me, motherhood is an 80-20 experience, with the 20 per cent being the challenging parts, like the sleepless nights or when I can't figure out why the baby is crying. Luckily my sister and I live together, so we both have an extra pair of hands and eyes in the raising of our children. For the most part, though, motherhood is fun, Keri-Shein is my bundle of joy and whenever I look into those little eyes, all the pain, weight gain (smile) and stress just vanish. I have learnt to appreciate my mum even more now, definitely... especially as a mother of twins. I love her dearly, even more now that I am a mummy too, and I thank her for raising me well and bringing my twin sister and me into the world.
Kerice Ashley - Visi Cooler Administrator, Wisynco with eight-month-old daughter Keri-Shein
Kerice — Motherhood has its ups and downs... it's challenging at times, and there are many sacrifices that have to be made but it is a generally wonderful experience when you're a mother, your child comes first always, but at the end of the day the love you have inside of you just shines through and manifests in the way that you love and raise your child. The first thing I've learnt as a mother is that you need help, you can't do it all alone, and I'm very grateful for my sister who has been there as a second mum. I have a new respect for mummy now because I realise how much work being a mother actually is, especially with my sister having a baby as well, because it feels as if we have twins. That really put things into perspective for me and made me wonder how mummy managed with both of us at once... even now, if Keri-Shein cries and I pick her up, Rayonna starts to cry too. They are bit jealous if one is getting more attention, so that must have been hard on my mother. I have also learnt a lot about sacrifice from her, and now by being a mother myself.
Michelle McNally - Business process manager, JMMB, with daughters Kayla, seven, (left) and Kimberley, 11
Motherhood has been fun, challenging and exciting and I now know what my own mother went through. The most rewarding moments for me would have to be seeing my daughters' smiles, and receiving their warm hugs and kisses, and I would definitely say that the most important lesson I've learnt from my mum is patience. I practise this important lesson by being an example to my own children. I always think about how I react to things, so that when they see it they learn from it and it's not negative, it's positive.
Jamelia Deperalto - office manager, Deperalto Orthodontics, with sons Joseph, six, and Jonathan, seven
I always say motherhood is perfection in chaos, especially for me, as a mother of boys. My boys are very close in age, so they are playmates. There is always noise, and it's always busy and high-energy and I never thought that I would one day see the beauty in that. When I'm away from it I miss it, and when I'm there, with their laughter, conversing and interacting...I am happy to be surrounded by it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I love watching them grow and learn... seeing my husband and myself in them, and being able to see the impact that we have had on their lives brings me great joy. Somebody once told me that love is having a child, and when I had my first, it really hit me, and then again with my second... there really is no greater love, and seeing and feeling their love each day makes me a better mother. It really makes me respect and understand my mum more as well, and she has taught me to be truly unselfish, which translates into how I am now as a parent, even sometimes without realising. I try to teach them that — how to be unselfish and considerate — because I know it will make them grow up to be better men. Motherhood is challenging, yes, but I love it.
Gillian Zacca - proprietor, OMG! Boutique with 15-month-old son Ryan
I think motherhood is a lesson in honesty, and I've learnt that from my mum, who is brutally honest (smiles). You learn to be honest with yourself, honest about your children and especially honest with your children. She also taught me that family is extremely important, and you should always cherish and keep in touch with family, as they are a part of you and will always be there for you, even when others aren't. I know I will see these lessons manifest in me even more as my son grows older... and I keep them in mind every day.
As a first-time mum, I have found the experience to be challenging, but it has also been great. Especially since I've learnt from my mother-in-law to let go a little and allow my son to explore rather than being too rigid.
As cliché as it sounds, I've learnt that there is no love greater than the love between a mother and her child.
The first time I saw him was such an awesome moment... so many thoughts went through my mind, and I was so overwhelmed with joy and awe that I just cried. My heart is so full when I get home after a long day and Ryan is there waiting to greet me with a big smile, a hug and a kiss. It really makes my day, and makes me realise that my mother's lesson on how important family really is, is the best lesson of all. She will do anything for her family, and I truly believe and fully understand that now, because I would do anything for my son.
Shani McGraham-Shirley - Fitness instructor/owner of Chai Studios, with seven-year-old son Thai and daughters India, eight, and Mali, three.
Motherhood is often seen as fairy tales and heavenly bliss with perfect babies who sleep through the nights, feed easily and smile all day long, or reading a parenting manual that has all the answers with everything that applies to you and your baby. Plus, mastering the balancing act between mother, wife and work while always maintaining the "fresh from the salon look"... then reality sinks in, and you realise none of the above applies to you. There is nothing perfect about motherhood. It's all trial and error. But the beauty of it all is that if one method doesn't work, you must "wheel an' come again". The first baby is an adjustment but manageable, life changes, but not drastically. The second baby was, for me, the biggest transition - you might as well give me a football team (laugh). This was where my struggle started. I struggled to maintain my sanity, to balance being a woman, a good mother, wife and employee, and after a while, something had to give.
After figuring out functioning with two children, I've found that child number three is relatively easy. It was at this point that I figured out the secret that worked for me - in order to be selfless I first had to become selfish. I had to focus on me first before my children, my husband or my work. If I found happiness and contentment with myself, I was then a happier, healthier and better person to everyone. We as mothers can only give so much; if we don't focus on ourselves... our spirituality, our sensuality, health and fitness, we will burn out very quickly.
Most persons think they have the best mother in the world, and I will admit to being one of those with this clichéd view. My mother has been such an inspiration to me on so many levels that to choose one seems impossible. She taught me how to parent a child while maintaining a friendship. How to keep the lines of communication wide open, without the threat of being judged, and how to be present at almost every performance, swim meet, doctor's appointment, etc. But the two most valuable lessons I've learnt from her are to truly love my children unconditionally, and the strength of a praying mother. With these lessons, she not only preached, but has led by example. Motherhood is a balancing act. It is doing the best one can do, loving your children unconditionally and letting go of the rest.
Kaysian Bourke - founder, SHINDIG: Concepts.design.décor, with two-year-old daughter Jazzmine and four-year-old son Matthew
I think when God decided to bless me with children; it was his way of exercising my patience. My children have taught me things I didn't even know about myself, and I am a better person for it. I now understand a mother's capacity to have and show unconditional love, not just to her own children, but to all others as well. My own mother, for example, is an amazing woman, she has taught me so much about life. How to be grateful, generous and resilient, she worked all her life to keep her children happy and will always give to a schoolgirl or a boy in need. I have learnt so much about my mother through myself, and the older my children get, the more I understand what she must have gone through when I was a child. I love her unconditionally, and through my own experiences and hers, I've learnt to never underestimate the experience of motherhood as a critical tool in preparing you for the world of work.
I personally believe that it should be listed under experience when applying for a job... it is hard work (smile). It takes adjustment and excellent time management — for me there is running a household, dropping off and picking the kids up from two different schools, taking them to all their extra-curricular activities, keeping them and my husband happy and comfortable and preparing healthy meals for them whilst running my own businesses — and in all of this you cannot afford to forget the simple things like even buying salt or milk (which I have done a few times). Sometimes it's when you are finally winding down after putting them to bed that you remember they have some elaborate school project that they brought home that particular week, like making a model of their school... which really means you have homework. And in all of that we as mothers can't forget to take some time for ourselves to look 'effortlessly fabulous' while doing it all (smile)... that is a must!
Matthew is a special child. He is attentive, funny, creative and smart. He also has a lot of energy, so patience... lots of patience, is definitely key. Jazzmine knows she is a princess and falls into that role perfectly, so between my husband, our nanny Patty, her grandparents and me, she makes sure we tend to her every need. I would never change any of that, though, because I genuinely enjoy spending time with my children. They are my world.
Anna-Kay Tomlinson - restaurateur, Miss T's Eatery, with seven-year-old son Liam and daughters Ashley (left), 18 and Lauren
As a mother of three children, one of whom has special needs, I must say that the balancing act of motherhood, running a business and being a wife is something I don't think I will ever perfect... but I truly love the challenges and rewards of it. My son Liam, who has Downs Syndrome, is truly a gift and blessing. He knits our family together with his love and joy, and he, in addition to my two daughters, has taught me unconditional love, patience and what it is to be humble. Special mums have special kids (smile).
Caroline Barton - attorney-at-law, with four-month-old daughter Monroe
The author of an article on motherhood that I recently read wrote, "I may have lost some spontaneity and free time, but success isn't built on stress and selfishness. Success can also be fuelled by a sense of purpose, especially when the stakes are raised." I couldn't agree more. I am still myself, just a better version with a greater purpose. Now more than ever I believe that there is no obstacle too large and no dream too impossible for me, because that is exactly what I will teach Monroe every day. Now more than ever I must practise what I preach.
Monroe was born on Martin Luther King Day, January 15, exactly nine months after her parents Caroline and Richard tied the knot — the plan was to start trying on the couple's first anniversary.
Three Generations
A very happy Mother's Day from our SO team to three generations of successful Jamaican women (from left): Regina Jansen, JD - Senior Trial Attorney, US Department of Justice; her sister Donna-Marie Manasseh, MD - Chief Division of Breast Surgery, Director Maimonides Breast Center Program, their grandmother Hurbilina Morrison - a 97-year-old retired nurse and their mum Cherry Manasseh - retired US Postal Service Executive Office worker.
