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Life Lessons from Mothers That Last a Lifetime
Mother’s Day is a time to reflect on the powerful impact of motherhood and the life lessons we carry forward. Whether your relationship with your mother was joyful, complex, or somewhere in between, this day offers an opportunity to honor those who’ve nurtured, supported, and shaped us.
The article, a Mother's Day reflection by Sequoia Living President and CEO Sara McVey, highlights the profound and lasting impact mothers have on shaping individuals through the life lessons they impart. These lessons, often conveyed through resilience, humor, and a strong work ethic, become foundational values that guide individuals throughout their lives. McVey shares how her mother's consistent support, including weekly inspirational quotes and a motto of "Work hard, put your big girl pants on," instilled enduring principles that she still references today. This personal narrative underscores how maternal guidance fosters strength and character that persists across generations.
From inspiring quotes to quiet strength, the values passed down through motherhood continue to influence who we are. Celebrate the meaningful lessons of motherhood and the people who provide care and guidance in our lives.
A letter from Sara McVey, President and CEO of Sequoia Living in honor of Mother’s Day.
This coming Sunday is Mother’s Day. While it is intended to be a celebration of Mothers, it’s not always the easiest day for everyone for a variety of reasons. Family relationships can be complicated in a million different ways. But regardless of whether they are difficult, smooth, uncomfortable, or joyous, they are an important part of what makes each of us who we are today.
For me, Mother’s Day is a reminder of the things I carry with me, and likely will for the rest of my life. I reference my mother all the time in conversation or when I give advice. When I got my first job out of college, my mother would call and leave a voicemail every Sunday with a quote for the upcoming week. Some were deep, some were meaningful, and some were just pithy one-liners, but I tracked them all, and still use some of them to this day.
Through all the belly laughs and belly aches, my mother never lost her sense of humor. As a single mom with three kids and three jobs, she never let on that the weight on her shoulders might be too much. I can’t remember any complaints, even though she was our sole means of support until I was 12. Her motto, which she took very much to heart, was “Work hard, put your big girl pants on, and try not to be a downer.” I try to live up to that one every day.
I learned a lot of good lessons from my mother. They make me who I am.
Regardless of the type of relationship you had with your mother, or someone in your life who was mothering to you, remember to honor the best part of yourselves this weekend, as we should all honor the best parts of EVERY person we know who provides mothering to others.
It’s one of the hardest and most rewarding jobs out there.
