This script is meant to serve as a template for reclaiming your day, your power, and taking a step towards celebrating yourself! Many mothers work VERY VERY HARD and are often caring for family on the very day meant to celebrate them. The day can be triggering and filled with obligations, often ending in burn-out and exhaustion rather than reprieve.
If you have a complicated relationship with your mother some of the ideas in the script might serve as a jumping off point. As our parents age, it can be challenging to navigate a “changing of the guard” where we help them transition into new roles and out of old patterns (or expectations for us). Go easy on yourself! We are transitioning out of old patterns too.
*Phone Rings*
Mom: Hello?
You: Hi, Mom.
Mom: Oh Hello! I was wondering when I’d hear from you. You know, I …..(story about herself and her happenings)
You: I hear you. Listen, before we go on, I wanted to wish you a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
Mom: But Mother’s Day isn’t until Sunday?
You: Yes! And I am really looking forward to spending it with my kids and celebrating my own motherhood this year. And you are my inspiration, so I wanted to make sure you knew how much I love you, right this very minute, so that you feel loved and celebrated too.
Mom: Won’t you be coming over to visit with me like we did last year--like we usually do?
You: This year, I’m taking the day and celebrating my own motherhood. I made plans with my children to celebrate. Similar to how we would spend it with you when we were growing up! Now it’s my turn.
Mom: Oh. (disappointment or other difficult feeling--maybe even push-back)
You: Transitions can be hard, I know. Grandmother’s day is Sunday, January 21, 2024. I’d love to have the kids and I celebrate with you then! It’s a special day that honors your new role as best Grandma in the world. How does that sound? (or Grandparent’s Day Sun, Sep 10, 2023)
Mom: Well, I guess.
You: Thank you for understanding. Keep your eye on the mail for a little something special. I love you.
Change topic and continue conversation, circling back to Mother’s opening, or end conversation here.
Whether you use this script or not, whether you open up a conversation about reclaiming your time this Mother’s Day or not, I want you to know you have PERMISSION to put yourself first.