For all mothers and nurturers, struggling to be strong for their families, I offer the following:

I don't think I can handle this,
I feel as though I'll break;
I've thrown my hands up in despair,
How much can my heart can take!

I'm not a superhero,
I'm a mother, hanging on,
Drawing on my fragile faith,
And trying to stay strong;

In the midst of this heart's struggle,
The voice of hope pushed past,
Whispering encouragement,
'Hold on, this too shall pass.'

'I know what you are going through,
That fear, I've known it too;
I've watched my loved one hurting,
Felt helplessness, like you;

Take courage, joy will follow,
And sorrow will pass by,
For love, once born,
Will be tested and torn,
But it can never die.'

A Mother's Blessing

My prayer is in
These mother's arms
That enfold my family 'round;
My prayer is in
These tears I cry
When problems get me down;
When they press
To hold me under,
I will lift my eyes
To Thine,
And pray, with all
That I possess,
That You will hear,
And You will bless
This family of mine.
Edie Batstone