Well, there are step-moms and foster-moms, etc. In Russia all the caregivers are called “Mama” by the kids. That never stopped me from being their mama.
I think that for some children (bio-children) with a sturdy mother/child relationship the word becomes sacred – like a name….but even then – who knows if they’ll need to call dad’s new wife “Mama Jane”, or perhaps just (to be like new siblings), even call her “Mom”.
I love the sacred, and I love symbolism and believe words are important, but I think what is in the heart is more important and children know the difference and can distinguish between all the women who love them (and certainly those who don’t).
Hannah Rae
Feb 10, 2012 at 10:13 AM
Good points, Annie. I guess that is what I was trying to get at, as far as the sacredness. And maybe I’m the only one who holds this word so highly, but I doubt it.
2 Comments
Well, there are step-moms and foster-moms, etc. In Russia all the caregivers are called “Mama” by the kids. That never stopped me from being their mama.
I think that for some children (bio-children) with a sturdy mother/child relationship the word becomes sacred – like a name….but even then – who knows if they’ll need to call dad’s new wife “Mama Jane”, or perhaps just (to be like new siblings), even call her “Mom”.
I love the sacred, and I love symbolism and believe words are important, but I think what is in the heart is more important and children know the difference and can distinguish between all the women who love them (and certainly those who don’t).
Good points, Annie. I guess that is what I was trying to get at, as far as the sacredness. And maybe I’m the only one who holds this word so highly, but I doubt it.
Reply