Ahhh, Mother’s Day.

It’s a day filled with love and celebration, and for me, it’s also a day of deep reflection and gratitude. Gratitude not only for the amazing mothers in this world but also for the women—and sometimes men—who’ve stepped into nurturing roles, no matter how unofficial or undefined those roles may be.

As someone who doesn’t have biological children of my own, this day has always landed differently in my heart. I’ve never felt entitled to recognition, and I don’t expect it. But I’d be lying if I said I never wondered where people like me fit in on a day like this.

I’ve helped raise, guide, support, and love many children who aren’t “mine” by blood, paper, or marriage. From cousins to friends’ kids, and now most significantly, my goddaughter Lilith—who lives with us and has become a huge part of our lives—I’ve poured my heart into showing up for children in ways that might not make me a “mom,” but certainly feel motherly.

And while I don’t seek a title or accolades, there’s a quiet question that lingers: Is it okay to be seen?
Not as a replacement. Not as the mom. But simply as someone who’s been there—with love, intention, and consistency.

We hear it all the time—it takes a village. But I’ve often wondered why, when it comes time to celebrate, the village is sometimes forgotten.

There’s a strange tension that creeps in around these holidays. In our home, Mother’s Day can be complicated. I will always honor and appreciate Lilith’s biological mother—without her, I wouldn’t have the joy of this beautiful girl in my life. But when Lilith makes me breakfast or writes a sweet note on Mother’s Day, I wrestle with the guilt.
Do I accept the love or deflect it so no one feels hurt?
Where’s the line between being grateful and being too visible?

I understand it’s not easy to share your child with another adult. I can’t imagine what that feels like as a parent. But as someone who’s just part of the village, it can feel hard too—especially when love is real but your role is blurry.

Still, even through the uncertainty, I’m filled with gratitude.

Gratitude for every parent who’s ever trusted me with their child, even for a moment. Gratitude for every kid who’s let me into their world and given me the chance to love them. Gratitude for every friend or family member who has treated me like part of the team—even if I’m not front and center.

To all the aunts, godmothers, caregivers, babysitters, teachers, neighbors, mentors, and friends—your presence matters. Your effort matters. Your love matters.

And to the parents—thank you for making room for the village.

So as Mother’s Day comes to a close, I just want to say this:

I see you. I honor you. I value all who mother in ways big and small.

And as we look ahead to Father’s Day, the same goes for every father figure out there. Whether you’re the biological dad, the bonus dad, the mom doing both jobs, or someone showing up in a quiet, consistent way—thank you.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the label. It’s about the love. ❤️🌹