I love everything about this poem, and the last line in particular has stayed with me:
Your brilliance is the backbone of this world. I was intrigued by Gurumayi’s use of the word
brilliance here, so I looked it up in the dictionary and thesaurus. What I found was a startling array of definitions and synonyms, almost all of which I could see applying to mothers!
I feel that by using this word,
brilliance, Gurumayi is identifying and honoring every single one of these qualities in a mother. It gives me an even greater appreciation for my own mother and for all mothers.
New York, United States
Shri Gurumayi’s golden gift of this poem reminds me to be grateful for my own mother’s disciplined efforts to keep me steadfast in my
sadhana and her encouragement to persevere through difficult times. At times when I feel disoriented, it is so comforting to hear my mother’s voice over the phone reminding me of the Guru’s protection and my own ability to rise to meet the challenges in my life. Gurumayi’s words remind me to be thankful for being blessed with a mother of such divine qualities.
The Houghton, South Africa
I have never felt more recognition and gratitude for being a mother than I did after reading Gurumayi’s magnificent poem. I felt that Gurumayi was speaking directly to me, with her sweet words revealing to me my own glory. My sweat and tears of so many years being a mum taste and smell beautiful. I am so grateful to Gurumayi who has inspired me to be the mother I am.
South Melbourne, Australia
While reading this poem, I thought of three generations in my own family: my mother, myself, and my children. Although I still remember and miss my mother—even during my seventy-ninth year—she is always with me. I feel her presence in my every thought, action, and reaction. All I do and think is still connected to how she brought me up, with discipline and values that are still applicable today.
When I look at myself as a mother, it gratifies me that my children still value my thoughts and my example. They express their appreciation in so many ways, which is amazing.
Lastly, when I observe how my own children are bringing up their children, I so appreciate that they are instilling their values and sense of responsibility in them. My grandchildren respect the older generation and value their advice.
I know that all this has only been possible because I have been extremely fortunate to have found Gurumayi. My Guru has taught me how to value discipline and uplift my life.
Pune, India
I recently lost my mother. So my eyes teared up as I read this eloquent poem dedicated to all mothers. When I listened to it read aloud, with my eyes closed, my heart opened. I felt the presence of a filament that connected my heart with the heart of my mother. I recognized that my mother’s wisdom and beauty are always present. They radiate in the words that I speak, in the love that I feel, and in the confidence and determination that guides me through my life.
Maine, United States