How was your Mother's Day? Did you get to spend it honoring a woman that you love? I did. 

Each year, as Mother's Day approaches, I am in the midst of planning community forums that use media and music to honor the legacy and value of women and mothers. Some of these events are designed to bring critical awareness to important issues affecting women and girls in our communities. Some events focus on our health and well-being, and others on showcasing our artistic genius. Creating forums for our community to gather, dialogue, think critically and celebrate brings me great joy. It is an expression of my purpose and destiny. 

Just as important to me is to take time to honor the woman who ushered me into this world--my mother, Jane Curry-Lee. This year, I snuck away from fussing over the last minute details of our Mother's Day Slam & Jam Love-In and drove two hours to see my mom on Mother's Day weekend. We had a wonderful time. My mom loves greeting cards, so it's important to me to spend time finding cards that express the sentiment in my heart. Joy lit up her face as she read her card aloud. This was followed by a warm and wonderful hug, and an "Oh, thank you, Baby. You always find cards that say just the right thing," as she set the card on the table for display.

This year, Mom wanted to see "Jumping the Broom" and to eat at her favorite restaurant. We enjoyed the movie and a wonderful meal. But, most of all, we enjoyed each other's company. It was such a gift spending time talking to my mom, getting caught up on what's happening in our personal lives and sharing our thoughts and feelings about what's happening with one another and in the world. As I have gotten older, my priorities and passions have
changed and it felt good to share these changes with my mother and to hear her feedback. I count it such a gift to have been blessed with a mom who nurtured and guided me, but also gave me room to determine my way in life. I am eternally grateful. Because she is, I am who I am. 

Mother's Day was the next day and I fixed breakfast for Mom and my step-dad. Then I made my way back to L.A. in time for our evening event. I took a gift back with me. It was a gift of peace and love and the joy that comes with serving another. 

I speak a lot about engendering respect for the lives of women and some people have difficulty relating tangibly to this concept. At its essence, it is about the small intimacies that we share with each other. It is about how we speak to one another, how we think about ourselves and each other, and what we do to serve one another daily. It is about cultivating a mindset of giving to and giving thanks for the women in our lives. It is being aware of their struggles and offering to ease that struggle because we care. It is about slowing down our own lives, taking the time for intimacy, listening and cultivating an attitude of care and graciousness.  It is about Love.

In service,

Shaunelle Curry
Mother's Day Radio