Where there is love, or a longing for love, there is grief. For this reason, Mother’s Day grief is not a deviation from the holiday, but a layered, inseparable part of its recognition. Your feelings of sadness, anger, joy, and despair are all normal and deserve to be included and cared for this weekend.
This year, we’re sharing a collection of reflections from writers who speak to their own Mother’s Day grief. Like all of us, each story is unique, but together they remind us we’re not alone.
Lessons From Grief What Losing My Mom Has Taught Me (So Far) by Alison Raskin
This essay by Alison Raskin reflects on her first experience with profound grief after the death of her mother. She shares how the loss transformed her perspective, revealing unexpected strength and a deeper understanding of herself. Despite the pain, Alison finds meaning, growth, and an ongoing relationship with her mom. She reminds us that grief isn’t something to get over. It becomes part of how we live.
The Grief and Joy of Being a Mother While Grieving a Mother by Litsa Williams
This moving essay by Litsa Williams reflects on her grief after losing her mom to cancer and the bittersweet experience of becoming a mother without her. Set against the backdrop of changing seasons and old photographs, Litsa explores how love, loss, fear, and joy can coexist. It’s a reminder to cherish time, take the photos, and find meaning in both memory and motherhood.
Grieving a Child on Mother’s Day by A Mother’s Chorus
This article is a heartfelt, collective letter written from the voices of grieving mothers, sharing what it’s like to grieve the loss of a child on Mother’s Day. Based on nearly 100 responses, the article speaks to the ongoing pain, love, and longing that stays with each person, while calling for compassion, acknowledgment, and space to grieve honestly and openly.
Why Is There So Much Silence Around Miscarriage? By Jessica Zucker
This article by Jessica Zucker explores how silence, stigma, and shame have shaped our responses to miscarriage. It examines the history and emotional complexity of pregnancy loss, encouraging a shift toward empathy and open conversation about pregnancy in all trimesters. The article advocates for a more supportive, understanding society for anyone experiencing miscarriage.
