CELEBRATING MOTHERS: A TRIBUTE TO THE PILLARS OF LOVE AND STRENGTHCELEBRATING MOTHERS: A TRIBUTE TO THE PILLARS OF LOVE AND STRENGTH
In the tapestry of life, mothers are the threads that weave love, strength, and unwavering support into the fabric of our existence. They are the heartbeats that guide us from our first breath to our most profound moments. In Black societies and beyond, the role of mothers is profound and multifaceted, shaping the destinies of individuals and communities alike. It is with deep gratitude and boundless affection that I rhapsodize these words to celebrate the mothers who have poured their love and hearts into our lives, and most dearly, to my own mother, Mrs. Bernadette Igbokwe.
Mothers: The Architect of Life
Mothers are the architects of life, for it is within their bodies that the miracle of creation unfolds. They carry us through the tender stages of infancy, nurturing us with the warmth of their love, care and the sustenance of their bodies. Their sacrifices begin long before we slide out of their wombs and inhale our first breath, as they bear the pains and challenges of pregnancy endured with the hopeful anticipation of the child to come.
In Black societies, motherhood is revered, and the strength of mothers is celebrated. From Sweet Mother by Prince Nico Mbarga to Jim Brickman’s ‘A Mother’s Love’ to The Band Perry’s ‘A Mother Like Mine’ to Christiana Aguilera’s ‘Oh Mother’ to Boyz 2 Men’s ‘A Song for Mama’ to ‘Dear Mom’ by Dax, many songs have been sung in memory, appreciation and celebration of the dearness, love, sacrifice and contributory impact of Mothers, including my best, ‘Dear Mama’ by Tupac Shakur. Mothers are no doubt a blessing and the soul of so much human expressions and innovation. Motherhood is a role that encompasses not only the physical act of giving birth but also the profound responsibility of shaping the character and values of the next generation. Mothers are the first educators, imparting wisdom and knowledge that transcend the boundaries of the classroom. I recall once an essay was given us as an English assignment when I was in high school. I asked my mother to assist me with a number of points to develop. She gave me the points and I developed them into the essay. As I had rounded off the essay, I asked her to read through it. As she read through, she pointed out some errors in my grammar and most especially in certain expressions she considered below the standard of her son. She told me I could do better but I begged her to help me. As always, with every joule of her goodwill, she took my scrap of rhapsody, made a few corrections- she cancelled the grammar errors and she changed the nature of most of my expressions and lo, my essay became an exquisite piece of writing. As I read through this essay, I smiled with joy and pride- why? It was the habit of our English teacher, Mrs. Alagbe to read out all composition assignments in class, analyzing them and identifying the best. As mine was read aloud in the class, the entire class was filled with admiration for every line and expression in which my composition was written and as the last line was recited an uninstructed applause erupted. Mrs. Alagbe looked at me and said, “Barry, who wrote this? and I answered, “My mom”. From that day on, I resolved to thenceforth write and keep bettering up my writing, and here I am- #barrygoodspeedspeaks
Mothers: The Nurturers of Dreams
Mothers are the nurturers of dreams, the ones who believe in us when we doubt ourselves. They are the gentle encouragers who stand by our side as we take our first steps, both literally and figuratively. It is in their unwavering support that we find the courage to pursue our aspirations, no matter how audacious they may be.
In Black communities and supposedly all communities, mothers have been instrumental in inspiring greatness. They have instilled in their children the belief that they can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams, even in the face of systemic barriers. Through their love and guidance, mothers have produced leaders, visionaries, and trailblazers who have made enduring contributions to society.
Mothers: The Pillar of Strength
Mothers are the pillars of strength, the ones who hold their families together through the storms of life. They bear the weight of responsibilities with grace and resilience, often juggling multiple roles as caretakers, providers, and nurturers. Their strength is a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
In Black societies, mothers have been unwavering sources of support during challenging times. From the days of slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, they have stood alongside their families, often as single mothers, facing societal injustices and fighting for a brighter future. Their determination and resilience have been the bedrock of progress and harbingers of transformation
Mothers: The Legacy of Love
The love of a mother is unmatched—a force of nature that knows no bounds. It is a love that transcends time and circumstance, a love that remains constant through the trials and tribulations of life. It is in the warmth of a mother’s embrace, the tenderness of her touch, and the gentleness of her words that we find solace and reassurance to rise again and soar to great heights.
In Black communities, the love of mothers has been a source of empowerment and healing. It has provided a safe harbor in a world that has not always been welcoming. The love of a mother has nurtured self-esteem and resilience, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and embrace their unique identities.
A Prayer of Blessing to All Mothers: Being, Have-Been and Ever-Been
As I honor and celebrate mothers, I offer a prayer of blessing to all mothers: being, have been and ever-been
Dear HEAVENLY FATHER
I thank YOU for the gift of mothers; for their boundless love, strength, and unshaking support. on behalf of all children, I offer gratitude for the sacrifices they have made, the pains they have borne, the dreams they have nurtured, and the legacy of love and compassion they have bestowed upon us. I ask for YOUR continued Grace and abundant blessings upon all mothers, and from my heart, to my own dear mother, Mrs. Bernadette Igbokwe.
May YOU, O LORD, continue to grant them health with vitality, happiness, and may their days be filled with joy and fulfillment. May they continue to be a source of inspiration and strength for all who are fortunate to know them. And may their dreams of seeing their fruits established, blossom and flourish before their very eyes come true and through; Amen
And for my mother, Mrs. Bernadette Igbokwe, I offer a special prayer:
Dear LORD,
I thank YOU for the incredible woman who is my mother, Mrs. Bernadette Igbokwe. She has been my rock, my counsellor, my teacher and my guiding light. Her love has been a constant presence in my life, and her wisdom has been my compass. Please bless her with health, happiness, and peace in all her days. May her heart be filled with the same love and warmth that she has poured into my soul and the soul of my beloved brothers and all who have had her encounter! And may her dreams of seeing her children established, blossom and flourish before her very eyes come true and through and may she be blessed with the life to witness, carry, cuddle and groom her grandchildren come to pass and fruition; Amen
IN YOUR NAME, YAHWEH, I PRAY; AMEN
A Prayer and Posthumous Dedication to Mama Ezinne Fidelia Maduforo
To Mama Ezinne Fidelia Maduforo, who recently passed on peacefully in her sleep- an epitome of motherhood not just to family but beyond family, rippling into community, we pray that THE MOST HIGH GOD, THE MAKER OF ALL EXISTENCE AND PHENONENOM, receive her soul in HIS BOSOM, ushering her into the glory, joy and abundance in paradise. Dear Ma, we shall keep your memories, imitate your benevolence, thread after your sermons of godliness and goodness and like you were, endeavor to be a beacon of hope and nourishment to our communities till we meet again at ‘The Crossroads’. So help us God! Amen.
This is a dedication to you too Mama. Rest in Paradise.
Let us celebrate and honor mothers as the architects of life, the nurturers of dreams, the pillars of strength, and the bearers of a legacy of love. In Black societies and beyond, their profound influence has shaped individuals and communities, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and our history.
To all mothers, I salute you.
To Mrs. Sharon Willaims
To Late Lolo Louisa Igbokwe under whose care I spent many of my college holidays; (Rest in Paradise)
To Mrs. Jacqueline Williams Igbokwe
To Mrs. Jane Igbokwe (Mama J) my streetwise aunt who always uncovered my pranks
To my late Godmother, Marita Etoh, I’ll always regard you till death (Rest in Paradise)
To Mrs. Winifred Oruche in whose plate I tasted the best Soul Food so far, and under whose abode I received hospitality and care in my many intermittent days on transit
Finally, once again, to my Dear mother, to your dear mother and to every dear mother, I love you and most definitely, we all love you all.