I have had a complex relationship with motherhood. I was a young mom and lost my mom not long after. Later, I married and immediately received 3 more daughters and a son. We, as a family, have gone through many changes, challenges, and growth. I have had the great joy of watching 3 of my girls become mothers. The generations and the cycle of life has always been something I contemplate and the individual experiences they each go through is so special. I rejoice with them. I mourn with them. I pray over and encourage them. The women before me and the women behind me have enriched me beyond measure. These are some personal expressions of my love for the women in my life in whatever relationship with mothering they experience.