Commit to be Fit: Reflecting on important moms in my life this Mother’s Day

To celebrate Mother’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on the meaningful women in my life and how their words of wisdom have impacted me and others I love. I feel so grateful to have a space to share their stories with you.

When my sister-in-law Marie shared that her husband was being deployed for a year, my heart broke for her and their three young children. I told her how sorry I was, and I’ll never forget her response. With confidence, she told me, “I believe with my whole heart that I was made to be their mom. God gave me these children because He knew I’d be the best mother for them while their dad is away.”

Marie’s steadfast belief that she was meant to be her children's mother has forever changed the way I view my own motherhood. She isn’t just getting through this challenging season — she’s making the choice to embrace this time with purpose, drawing strength from her deep faith and assurance that she is equipped for this chapter in her children’s lives.

Her words are a reminder to all mothers: “You were chosen for your children, too.” In moments of doubt or exhaustion, remember that your love, your presence, your way of guiding them is no accident. You are exactly who they need.

As a child, my husband dreamed of becoming a doctor. After being waitlisted, he was discouraged. But his parents believed in him and encouraged him to not give up. His mom asked him, “Is this still something you want?” When he said yes, she researched medical schools and recommended him to apply to a program with a unique fast-track option. With her belief behind him, he reapplied — and not only got in, but was elected class president, made lifelong friends and graduated with honors. This was the school he was meant to get into.

When my husband’s confidence was shaken, it was his mom’s belief in him that helped him move forward. Mothers, your belief matters more than you know. In moments when your child begins to doubt themselves, your faith in them can be the confidence that lifts them up. It doesn’t take big speeches or grand gestures. Sometimes, it just takes a reassuring voice saying, “I believe in you. You’ve got this.”

After losing their son to a tragic accident caused by a drunk driver, my grandparents did something extraordinary. Just one day after the crash, my grandma deeply felt she needed to forgive the young man who caused the accident.

She shared this with my grandpa, and together, they called the young man, but he was too overcome with grief to come to the phone. But they didn’t give up. They wrote him a letter: “Our prayers are with you. Don’t let this unfortunate accident overwhelm you. Trust in God. We love you.”

At a time when bitterness would have been easy — and even expected — they chose compassion. Their response wasn’t just an act of grace. It was a living example of their faith, of love in action. And it has inspired me and my whole family ever since.

And finally, wisdom from my own mom — my writing partner, my sounding board and one of the wisest women I know. For years, we’ve written this column together, and it’s been one of the greatest joys of my life to collaborate with her each month, reflecting on life, health, and how one’s faith can be a guiding force to live a more abundant life.

Whenever I’m struggling, whether it’s with parenting, work or just life, she always gently asks me, “Have you prayed about it?” It’s never said with pressure, just quiet reassurance. That simple question never fails to ground me. It reminds me I’m not alone. I can pause, breathe and call upon a power greater than myself. I can trust that somehow, in some way, things will work together for good.

This Mother’s Day, take a moment to reflect on the love received and the lessons learned from the special women in your life. Then, if you are able, share those recollections with your loved ones. If any one of these women have passed, know that gratitude and love is eternal and crosses all time and space. If forgiveness needs to be offered or received; the gift and power of forgiveness also crosses time and space; and Mother’s Day offers the perfect opportunity to extend and receive that grace.

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Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. Comments: kylie@thewellwoman.org.