Mom, mother, mama..madre…it is an impossible role to define. If I say female, trans and non-binary people may wonder if they are included (YES! You absolutely are); it would also exclude single dads who fill the mother role. Using birth or genetics excludes foster, adoptive and other people who fill the role. A mother could be your best friend’s mom, aunt, or elder. Ultimately, the only real definition of a mother that matters is someone who provides love and support. Full stop. They may or may not be female, related or fit into any other traditional category. But who cares? If you consider someone a mother to you, she is; if you fulfill the role of mother to someone, you are their mother.

So, to all Mothers out there, but especially to my mom, you rock. Today, my moment of appreciation goes out to you.