I am you. You are me.

We’ve endured difficult pregnancies and labor. We’ve looked into the sweet eyes of our new baby, welcoming him into the world. We’ve tackled loads of laundry while trying to settle our baby down for a nap. We’ve watched with delight as our toddler learned to take his first steps, ride his first bike and climb his first tree. We’ve softly sung lullabies and recited Goodnight Moon so many times that it echoes in our minds whenever we see the full moon.

I am you. You are me.

We’ve silently cried while dropping our preschoolers off as they clung to us, not quite ready for school. We’ve watched in awe as our son developed new skills like tying his shoe, writing his name and drawing colorful finger-painting masterpieces. We’ve been there to clean up the scrapes and wait with worry in the emergency room. We’ve dealt with the baby blues, toddler blues and tween blues.

I am you. You are me.

We’ve done our share at home and then volunteered at our children’s school. We’ve dealt with screaming, crying children while trying to drive home safely in traffic. We’ve stayed up baking cupcakes, wrapping party favors and then braving twenty plus kids. We’ve gone to the craft store three times; then helped our frustrated fourth grader with the gluing and painting of his mission project.

I am you. You are me.

We’ve stayed up past midnight helping Santa, tooth fairies and silly bunnies fulfill their duties. We’ve struggled to accept that our tweens no longer want our companionship like they once used to. We’ve learned to set limits and handle the challenges of parenting our teenagers. We’ve shared their joy at their graduation as they moved forward in their education.

I am you. You are me.

You and I, we are the same. Regardless of age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education or race. You, me and the young woman with the jogger stroller running that’s trying to get her crying baby to fall back asleep. You, me and the teenage mom who can barely afford to feed her child. You, me and she. We all share that common thread. That thread is strong and runs deep. For this, I thank you. Thank you for all you do. Be good to yourself and celebrate moms everywhere. You, me and she. We all deserve that. Happy Mother’s Day.

Marla McMahon, PsyD, is a mom of two boys and a clinical psychologist. In her private practice in Sacramento, California, she works within a mind-body model with patients of all ages, in areas of depression, anxiety and stress reduction using mindfulness-based therapy. In her spare time, Marla enjoys being outside as much as possible and drives the distance to be near the ocean. She also enjoys paddle boarding and hiking and is a dedicated yogi and meditator.

 

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• Assistant Ed: Karla Rodas
• Ed: Brianna Bemel