You Never Know Until You Know

I never knew what it was like to be a mom, until  I became a mom.

I didn't know the sweet heartbreak of looking into my child's eyes and knowing that now my own heart was no longer beating in my chest, but rather walking the world on its own.

I didn't know the boundless joy that could be had in one small smile.

The aching pleasure of hearing the word "mama" for the first time.

The powerful knowing of looking into my daughter's eyes and seeing God, seeing eternity.

I didn't know how hard it would be to change millions of diapers. To be puked on and pooped on.

I never knew how little all those challenges would matter because of the love that swells my soul at her every heart beat.

My mom always said I didn't know how much she loved me.

She was right.

I couldn't know that kind of love until I held it for myself.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom. Thank you for everything.

I love you.