The Mother in all of us

Mahadevi also known as Adi Shakti, is the Supreme Goddess, the Par Brahman, the Ultimate reality. According to Shaktism, She is the life force in all beings, the universal mother, the source of all creation and the energy that sustains it and into which everything dissolves.

Women are considered as vessels of Shakti. They hold the power to create, nurture and destroy. The word Mother has traditionally been synonymous with a woman who births a child and is the primary caregiver. But what about women who don’t birth children, but care for them anyway!? Not just women, what about people of other genders who provide care, love and nourishment to others!? Aren’t they an embodiment of Shakti? Aren’t they mothers in their own right!?

Mothers are powerful role models for children. They play a crucial role in shaping their lives. They are their very first Gurus, who teach them the difference between right and wrong and provide them the skills to help navigate life with conviction and courage. In essence, ‘mothers’ are the most selfless, caring, loving, compassionate and resilient beings. Anyone who embodies these qualities, irrespective of gender, is a mother. The society has for long tried to over simplify and stereotype gender roles so that people can be boxed into categories. But as societies evolve and embrace change, even the concept of motherhood is dramatically transforming. People are breaking barriers, and defining their own roles and choices. They are no longer defined by what others expect them to be or do. They can truly embrace and express their inner selves the way they want. Anyone who has the ability to respect others, nurture, guide, empower and care with compassion has the right to be called a mother. Not just towards a child, but the ability to show empathy, consideration, support and unwavering love towards anyone (a person, a community, an animal) is what qualifies one to be called a mother. Motherhood in the true sense is gender neutral.

Self-mothering is a beautiful role people play in their own lives. They prioritize their physical, mental and emotional needs and well-being and strive to fill their own cup in a way only they can. It is an act of self-love, rooted in nurturing and advocating for ones needs and aspirations. It’s an equally vulnerable and courageous thing to do, which can be truly fulfilling, healing and transformative.

Shakti resides within all of us. She doesn’t discriminate between men and women. None of us can exist without Her. We must rise above the definitions and gender roles that society has imposed upon us since time immemorial. Just like the Divine Mother is impartial and ever loving, may we be equally tolerant, respectful and embracing of the roles we are beginning to discover and embrace in our own journeys. Motherhood is for everyone and anyone can be a mother in their own right!