Happy Mother’s Day!
Karen and Jay celebrate the amazing role that mothers play in our lives.
Mothers are absolutely amazing! They seemingly have the ability to perform miracles. We marvel at what they can do. When we are young, they are the center of our universe. We depend upon them in so many ways. And, then later in life, as we grow older, we may be less dependent on them day-to-day, but the truth is – no matter how old you are – when you’re in need of direction, wisdom, or support – it’s your mother that you want to call.
In fact, I recently heard a story that capsules it so well. A young man was describing a very difficult time he was experiencing in his career. He was in a very complex, technical profession – a discipline where his mother had no familiarity at all. And his initial thought was – why ask my mother how to solve this: She doesn’t know anything about anything. But he called her nonetheless – not even sure that he would tell her about his troubles. When he said, “hello,” however, and before he even had a chance to say another word, his mother instantly recognized the intonation – and said, “son, what’s wrong, what’s the matter, honey?’
Well, that opened the flood gates. He told his mother everything that had been going wrong. How he felt so lost and that he had no idea what to do or how to solve his problems.
His mother listened – and then as only a mother can do, gave him the precise direction that he needed – along with the confidence that he would need to help him succeed. Not surprisingly, it worked. Then, later looking back on the situation, the young man reflected, saying, ‘while sometimes it seems that mothers may not know anything about anything, it turns out that they actually know everything about everything!”
I’m guessing that you may have your own fond memories of how your mother has had such an important impact on your life. Shaping you in so many ways. At the same time, I suspect there are also the ‘little things’ – all those small gestures that show her love. Whether it’s the peanut butter and jelly sandwich – just the way she made it. Or the note of encouragement or love that you would find in your lunchbox – or really whatever it might be.
All these little gestures weave a fabric of caring and support – that last a lifetime. In truth, there is no love like a mother’s love. So, on this special occasion, Mother’s Day 2024, let’s reach out and thank those wonderful mothers who love us, shape our lives and are the glue that binds it all together. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, the grandmothers – and all those wonderful souls who play such a significant role in our lives.
Meaningful Mothers and the Role They Play
When we think about nations and their destiny, it turns out that mothers play such a vital role. Often behind the scenes and sometimes at the forefront are mothers, whose guidance and support often shape the decisions of their sons or daughters, who may one day hold the fate of their country in their hands.
With this in mind, one of my favorite and most inspirational examples is the mother of the noted surgeon and former presidential candidate, Ben Carson - Sonya Carson. In the field of medicine and public service, the influence of Sonya Carson on her son, Dr. Ben Carson, is a testament to the transformative power of maternal love and support. Despite facing numerous challenges, including poverty and discrimination, Sonya Carson instilled in her son a deep sense of resilience and determination. A belief that he could achieve whatever he set his mind to. These qualities propelled Dr. Ben Carson to become a pioneering neurosurgeon and later a prominent political figure, whose decisions have had a lasting impact on healthcare policy and public discourse.
And George W. Bush, our 43rd President. Throughout his political career, his mother, Barbara Bush, played a significant role in shaping his worldview and approach to leadership. Her strong character and unwavering support undoubtedly influenced his decisions as president, particularly during times of crisis such as the September 11 attacks. Barbara Bush’s influence also extended beyond mere policy decisions; it encompassed values of integrity, empathy, and resilience that guided her son through the complexities of governance.
Similarly, the influence of Rose Kennedy, mother of John F. Kennedy, reverberated throughout her son’s presidency. As the first Catholic president of the United States, JFK faced numerous challenges, both domestically and internationally. Yet, it was the lessons instilled by his mother—lessons of compassion, courage, and determination—that fortified his resolve in times of adversity. Rose Kennedy’s influence transcended political boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on her son’s presidency and the course of American history.
In the realm of civil rights, the influence of Alberta King, mother of Martin Luther King Jr., was profound. Her unwavering commitment to justice and equality imbued her son with the moral clarity necessary to lead the fight against racial injustice in America. Alberta King’s influence was not confined to the private sphere; rather, it permeated the very fabric of the civil rights movement, inspiring her son and countless others to confront oppression with courage and conviction.
In the British monarchy, the influence of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, on her son, King Charles, is a testament to the enduring power of maternal guidance. As a symbol of continuity and tradition, Queen Elizabeth’s wisdom and experience have undoubtedly shaped her son’s approach to kingship and governance. In an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, her steadying influence provided a beacon of stability for the monarchy and the nation as a whole.
The influence of mothers in shaping the decisions of their sons cannot be understated. Whether in the political arena, the struggle for civil rights, the monarchy, or the field of medicine, maternal guidance and support play a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. As we reflect on the importance of influence and decision-making in our country, let us not forget the profound impact of mothers whose love, wisdom, and sacrifice shape the leaders of tomorrow.
Home Schooling – Mothers and a Passion for Education
In New Hampshire, a quiet revolution in education is taking place as more parents opt for homeschooling - citing a desire for personalized learning experiences and closer family bonds. And as this trend gathers steam, it is the mothers who are playing a central role. Devoting immense amounts of time, attention, and care to their children’s education – typically at great personal expense. Yet, reaping the immeasurable benefits for their children’s education and the strengthening of the family relationship.
One of the key drivers behind this trend actually is the desire for a more intimate family experience. Parents find that homeschooling not only fosters academic growth but also enhances familial bonds. This close-knit environment enables parents, especially mothers to actively engage in their children’s education, offering hands-on guidance and personalized attention that can be challenging to achieve in traditional school settings.
New Hampshire's natural beauty and vibrant communities also play a role in this shift. Families value the flexibility that homeschooling provides, allowing them to incorporate outdoor and community-based learning experiences into their curriculum seamlessly.
The rise in homeschooling reflects a broader societal shift towards personalized education and greater parental involvement in children’s learning journeys. Families in New Hampshire are embracing the opportunity to break away from the constraints of an often rigid educational system and embrace a more holistic, child-centered approach to learning. And the truth is that this trend would not be happening if not for the efforts of mothers. So, ‘thank you’ to all those mothers who are taking on this additional role of home school teacher, administrator, and more
Positive Profile of the Week: Mary Jane Beauregard - Thoughts on Motherhood
This week we are delighted to highlight a great friend, a leader in our state - and someone who truly personifies the ideal of being a great mother – Mary Jane Beauregard.
To be in her presence is to know a marvelous balance. Strength and gentleness, guidance and understanding, someone who challenges you to be better and inspires you to believe you can. The greatest pain you could ever see in her eyes is when she sees other people suffering. She has made it her life’s work to help others live their best life.
Of all the titles and roles that Mary Jane holds or has held, ‘Mother’ is by far the most important. She is also the loving wife of John Smith, whom she adores. NH GOP Republican Committeewoman, NH GOP Finance Chair, Republican Women of NH Chair, successful entrepreneur, and business owner as well as the owner of three beautiful horses which she raises in the countryside of western New Hampshire. Her values were shaped by what she considers an idyllic and blessed childhood.
Mary Jane was raised by wonderful parents who held what at that time were traditional roles. Her dad was the breadwinner, and her mom was a housewife and devoted mother. While things do change from one generation to another, she is a big believer in the incredible value in the family unit. Unfortunately, today, she notes that motherhood in many ways has been trivialized.
From Mary Jane:
“As Mother’s Day approaches, it is my hope that young women don’t buy into the falsehood that motherhood only drags a woman down, for there is no greater gift to one’s own soul or to society than to bring forth a new life. Intimacy should be sacred and everything surrounding it should be as well. Women must learn that they have an awesome power, and they must respect and honor that power by wielding it during the times they are actively dating. That should be the foundation for starting a successful and happy future.
We are so blessed today. We women can have careers without sacrificing motherhood. Men can marry without fear that they must bear the entire financial responsibility of raising a family. If as a society, we can once again revere motherhood and femininity as well as masculinity and fatherhood we can set things straight. Moms and Dads can work together to do a great job parenting if they choose to cherish their kids and cherish the sacredness of intimacy.
I raised a son who is an Air Force Academy graduate and works at the Pentagon and a daughter who is a corporate lawyer. I did so while founding and running my own successful business. My family was and always will be my motivation. Love will always be my guiding light. My kids both have wonderful spouses who they adore and terrific children who are cherished.
Being a mother, a stepmother and a grandmother is my greatest joy. I am immensely proud of them all. Family is everything. Sacrificing starting a family for material gain or sexual freedom will not make for any meaningful happiness ever.
I strive to be a good role model for my family by doing all that I can to be the best person I can be. I don’t ever want to stop learning, experiencing, and growing. I’m so glad my children were born unto me and yours unto you. May God bless the children and be with every mother and father as they raise those children with the utmost love and care.
Happy Mother’s Day!”
Thank you, Mary Jane! We honor your spirit in support of motherhood! Happy Mother’s Day to you!
Quotes of the Week: Mothers and Miracles
“My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute my success in life to the moral, intellectual, and physical education I received from her.”
—George Washington
“I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.”
—Abraham Lincoln
“The phrase ‘working mother’ is redundant.
—Jane Sellman
“[Motherhood is] the biggest gamble in the world. It is the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary–it’s an act of infinite optimism.”
—Gilda Radner
“A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie.”
—Tenneva Jordan
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