It takes a female to have a baby, It takes a woman to raise a child, It takes a mother to raise them correctly, It takes a warrior to show them how to change the world. ― Shannon L. Alder
Being a good mother has so many benefits, not only to their direct family, but to the world. However, being a good mother is so hard depending on your situation, age, opportunity and community. The role of educated, empowered, equipped mothers in the development of their families, communities and nations is widely documented and underpins the push behind many campaigns aimed at young girls such as The Girl Effect led by the Nike Foundation. The idea behind many of these international movements is to influence the unique potential of adolescent girls to end poverty for themselves, their families, their communities, their countries and the world.
The international community is united in their desire to end the suffering of women for whom motherhood has been forced upon them too early or has caused them great suffering due to a lack of access to maternal health care. Also, there is a recognition that young girls who become mothers too early leave school, are unable to work or generate an income, which not only leaves themselves and their children in a hugely vulnerable position, but means they are not contributing to the economic growth of their country or own community. In fact, in India, adolescent pregnancy results in nearly $10 billion in lost potential income per year which shows just how much girls could make a difference given the right chances. It’s also well documented that children of mothers who have been forced into motherhood too early are likely to repeat the pattern and so the cycle of poverty continues.
Pamela Skuse’s effect at Misión Mexico
At Misión México we have seen the powerful effect that a strong, compassionate, loving mother can have on young girls (and boys). Pamela Skuse became a source of inspiration, comfort and advice for all of her children and her determination that they should be educated, compassionate and driven which can be seen in the choices that they make, and the self belief that they exhibit.
Pam is an example of how when we invest in young girls, they grow up to be well equipped mothers, who break the cycle of poverty for their children. Our Misión México have come from a wide range of backgrounds, some poor, some abusive, some neglectful. She changed their lives, with the help of our sponsors, by giving them an education and instilling in them determination, self belief, and a desire to follow their dreams. We have already seen the effect this has had on many of our young adults and we can’t wait to see how all our amazing children change the world for themselves, their future families and their communities.
Over the years, we’ve seen many more examples of strong and inspiring staff members and volunteers who fill the motherly role and continue to create the rippling effect that love, care and support can have on our kids and teens. People like Melissa, Anna, Miss Kim, Miss Karina and Kristen. Each one brings a different perspective, different lessons and different kinds of care which means that all of our children are immersed into a world where there is no stereotype of what it means to be a mother, as long as you have the means of bringing safety, love and the best you can give to those in their care.
Happy Mother’s Day!
May we wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers out there working hard to give their children the childhood that they deserve, And may we thank those investing in young girls all over the world so that they may reach their full potential and inspire change in their own lives and the lives of others if they choose to become mothers. May you have a restful day surrounded by those who love you the most.
Love always,
Misión Mexico