While Mother’s Day is a time of celebration for many, it can also bring deep emotional challenges. For some, the holiday is a reminder of loss — the mother they no longer have, the child they once carried, or the motherhood they’re still hoping for. CBC columnist Amy Bell shares her own experience, balancing the pride of being a mom with the sadness of being motherless. Her reflections capture a truth many face silently: Mother’s Day can be hard.
Miscarriage, infertility, estranged relationships — these are all parts of motherhood often hidden from view, yet they weigh heavily on days like this. End-of-life doula Megan Sheldon, who endured pregnancy loss herself, says the pain can be especially acute when those losses go unacknowledged. She recommends small, personal rituals as a way to honour grief, such as a walk to a place that holds meaning.
Clinical counsellor Dr. Veronica Li urges people to avoid platitudes like “your time will come.” While often well-intentioned, they can feel dismissive to those navigating grief or infertility. Instead, she advises simply recognizing someone’s pain and being present with them.
Mother’s Day, like motherhood itself, is full of complexities. It’s okay to feel joy and sorrow at once. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s valid. Whether you’re celebrating or mourning this Sunday, you deserve space, support, and compassion.
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