Let’s Remember All Mothers on Mother’s Day by Author Elaine A. Powers

Sunday, May 9th is Mother’s Day. This day is generally reserved for human mothers, as in mothers who have human children. Women who may not be birth mothers, but acted in a motherly role, are also included. I never had children of my own, but I enjoyed working with children in theater and science projects. I even wrote scripts for them. Then I’d happily go home to my reptile companions.

Very rarely are human mothers of other species included in the day’s celebration.  A couple of years ago, I became the owner of a horse named Button.  That event in itself is truly unbelievable. However, the fates brought us together and a new adventure began. I’ve come to realize that having a horse is as close to having a child as I can have without having a human child. You worry about the horse. Is it healthy? Is it happy? You must maintain discipline—all the usual maternal roles. In return, my horse whinnies at my arrival, raises her head when she hears my voice, and wraps her head around my neck when I hug her.

However, something about this horse-human activity has surprised me. The veterinarians refer to me as “Mom.” Yes, they do actually know my name. Yet, I am always “Mom.” And it’s not just me – all female horse owners are referred to as “Mom.” I wonder if the men are called “Dad?”

I did search the Internet to see if there was some reason for or origin of this practice, but I didn’t find anything. Maybe it’s meant to confirm the woman-equine relationship and to remind some people that they are de facto parents to the horse in their care. That’s not something I need to be reminded of. My horse is part of my heart.

On this day, let’s include all mothers in the celebration, whether their children are equine, reptilian, canine, feline or any other animal in the care of a female human.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Book Note: My animal companions all inspire me in one way or another–but one, Calliope, a green iguana, is my Muse.

Myrtle the Tortoise, on the other hand, demanded I write Don’t Call Me Turtle! after being called Myrtle the Turtle one too many times. Would you like to know the differences between tortoises and turtles? Pick up a copy today–the kids love this fun-facts rhyming book with illustrations that highlight the differences.

#elaineapowers  #lyricpower  #animalmothers  #happymothersday  #lovemyanimalcompanions  #animalinspiration