
On Mother’s Day and Father’s Day
A couple thoughts on Mother’s & Father’s Day:
This year at the Guelph Vineyard, we’re going to take a bit of a different approach to Mother’s day & Father’s day. We’ll have a simple acknowledgement, but there won’t be a call to single out mothers or fathers, or a message that reflects on the day.
I thought it would be appropriate to talk about why.
Before I go any further, let me say this: We love and value moms and dads. Of course we do!! What you guys do is amazing. You deserve to have your family celebrate you.
And.
We also love and value those who aren’t moms or dads. We love and value those who have complicated relationships with their moms or dads; those who have lost children; those for whom these two celebrations are painful rather than joyful… for whatever reason.
For many, these two days in particular arrive heavy laden with expectations, fears, sorrow, sadness and regret. We acknowledge this.
For those who get to experience Mother’s and Father’s days as being joyful, that’s wonderful. We’re grateful for the gift that your family is to you, and the gift you are to your family! At the same time we want to remain a safe space for those who find these days difficult.
So, this Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, we’re going to gather as we do: Recognizing the complexity of life together with our eyes focussed squarely on the Lord.
See you then,
Kris MacQueen