Mother’s Day: My Experience as the 'Disappointing' Child.

My experience of Mother's Day. 

I don't recall celebrating with my mother on Mother's Day on many occasions. Our visitation schedule meant being with my father until 6 pm and when I was 15 I worked on Sundays. I do recall her complaining and blaming me for not being the one to organize something. Something more than a card. I was little, and there was no way I could have without involving my father.

I was also a child. I shouldn't have had to take on that role. 

When I started traveling alone to school I had the opportunity to buy her flowers from the station florist. She loved daffodils. Everything else about my relationship with my mother was horrendous. I do recall a few times we did try and do something as a family on Mother's Day, and it always ended with me crying and her verbally attacking me. The experience was so horrendous that I still find it hard to write something kind and positive for the mother's out there who are celebrated. 

I swore back then I would never subject my children to forced family time. Later on, I swore I would never have children. (Man plans & God laughs). I then married a man who didn't care to do anything for me, and we divorced when the children were tiny. They never witnessed someone making me special for a day. 

Some would say by dismissing it, I dismiss myself. 

For me, watching my children grow into the people they are today is the reward of being a mother. No card can match the pride and love I have for them.  

Here are some of the things I jotted down to write about. Feel free to email me your stories, experiences, and advice to share with others. 

• What does Mother's Day mean to you?
• Why is it important? 
• What are your expectations? 
• Two Mothers.
• Step-Mothers.

A note from a child of divorce to mums.

We carry the load of complicated dynamics + growing up + hormones + navigating split loyalty + social media posts of supposed happy families. 

It doesn't mean we love you less.

If you would like to share your story (anonymously) or share some expert advice and insights, please contact me at contact@angryexwife.com