By Darrion Narine
Programme Coordinator, CCSJ/AMMR
“A Mother’s love, you never forget” – Sundar Popo
There are pop culture phenomena like ‘Thank you, Mama’ by Jamaican reggae musician Sizzla (Miguel Orlando Collins) or ‘A Mother’s Love’ by Trinidadian musician Sundar Popo that outline the love that many people have for their mothers in the Caribbean region. On Mother’s Day you can hear these songs and many others being played across Trinidad and Tobago.
The role of the mother in contemporary Caribbean culture has become twice as important as we navigate a very complex and complicated world.
I would like to acknowledge that a mother goes beyond the biological but can also be anyone who fills the role of a mother throughout the life of a person: grandmothers, aunts, family friends, godmothers, cousins, neighbours.
We have a matrifocal society in Trinidad and Tobago, since many of the systems and institutions are upheld by women. The family is one such institution, where the mother is of the utmost importance.
Mothers are the glue that hold families together. Many mothers prepare their children for school. They serve as caretaker, psychologist, cook, coach and so many other roles in the life of their children. Even when their children become adults, they are their main supporters.
However, in recent years we have seen a social injustice arise that is worrisome. Many mothers and women have become victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse. The protection of our women must become a priority.
Many women who experience GBV feel helpless in the situation and do not know where to turn.
While many mothers will experience love and share a meal with their families, there are others who will suffer abuse on this day. I urge you to offer up a prayer for the mothers who are suffering.
Additionally, we spare a thought for those mothers who are living in poverty and do not know where they will receive the next meal for their family.
I encourage you to be charitable for Mother’s Day. If you know of a mother or a family in need, provide them with food and groceries, so that they can share a meal in love. Remember that being able to sit with your mother and celebrate her love and contribution to your life is a privilege.
Many families are suffering, and many are unable to spend time with their mothers because of social injustices across the world. I also remember at this time those who have lost a mother or one who served as a mother in their lives. I offer a prayer for you all.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, I would like to acknowledge especially my mother and grandmother who continue to be pillars in my life and who have made endless sacrifices for me.
I wish you all a joyous day and for those who may not be on good terms with their mother, use this time to make peace and pave a way forward for your relationship. Life is too short to not appreciate motherly love.
May the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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SOCIAL JUSTICE QUOTE FOR THE WEEK
“[In the parable of the Good Samaritan] We have seen, descending on our world, the dark shadows of neglect and violence in the service of petty interests of power, gain and division. The real question is this: will we abandon the injured man and run to take refuge from the violence, or will we pursue the thieves?” (72)
– Pope Francis, Fratelli Tuitti
CCSJ Social Justice Education Committee
