How to Be a Thankful Mom on Mother's Day

Mothers are a special bunch.

From single moms with young children, to moms whose grown children no longer live close by, to families who are estranged--there are countless reasons why moms feel sad on Mother's Day. If you're a mother who is alone or overlooked, you could fall into a slump. On a day when moms are honored, you might feel unappreciated or abandoned. You might feel self-conscious and down in the dumps. If you would like to turn gloom into a day with meaning, here's how.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take charge. It is possible to miss your kids, feel sad that they aren't with you and still have a positive day. To do that you will have to take charge. Even if your kids aren't with you, you are still a mom. Ask yourself: How do I want to celebrate motherhood?

2. Make plans. If you're a single mom with kids who are too young to plan the day, then it's up to you to plan a celebration and set the tone. Tell the little ones, "It's Mommies Day" and explain what that means. Just because there's no one to help you, that doesn't mean you should avoid the day. Have a good cry, then make plans. When your kids are older they will remember and follow the example you set.

3. Pick up the phone. If you feel like calling your out-of-town kids, do. Tell them how happy you are to be their mother. Tell them what a blessing they have been in your life. Say, "You are the spring in my step." If you are estranged from your children, this is a good day to reach out. Make whatever amends you need to.

4. Send cards. Without your kids you wouldn't be a mother. Send a "Happy to be a Mother" card. If your children are young, make cards together.

5. Reminisce. Write in a journal. Go through photos. Remember the sweet times. Write letters.

6. Throw a celebration. You may know other woman in the same boat. If you do, invite them over. Turn the day into celebration. No need to feel alone or lonely; there are people who would enjoy your company. Mothers are a special bunch. Without them where would we be?

7. Reflect. Take time during the day to reflect on the blessings of being a mother. Reflect on all that you've done.

8. Recognize the sacrifice. There are many sacrifices that mothers make for children. Honor yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back for putting their needs above your own. Hold your head high. Project a positive, loving, kind attitude toward yourself.

9. Talk to your friends. Let your friends know that you would like to celebrate the day together. You may not want to be alone, but your friends won't know unless you speak up. There's nothing wrong with saying, "I don't want to be alone today."

10. Focus on what you have. Even if the day is not being celebrated in the way you might wish, shift the focus to what you do have. Instead of focusing on what is missing, focus on what is present. Instead of focusing on what you wish you had, focus on all that you do have.