Motherhood: The gift that keeps on giving

For this year's tribute to mothers, The Sunday Gleaner explores the gift of motherhood.

In celebration of the day dedicated to them, a few mothers from the entertainment sphere talked about how much motherhood has changed their lives. Describing it as the gift that keeps on giving, these women expressed gratitude simply because they are able to celebrate the day. Sharing lessons they've learnt from their children, these mothers expressed that if no physical gifts are exchanged today, the day would still be made because they are and will forever be MOTHER.

 

Raine Seville, entertainer and mother of Layla-Rei

 

Motherhood has definitely put a lot of things into perspective for me. I think less of myself now and more about her first. It has increased my level of maturity and determination. Before having Layla-Rei, I would spend a lot more money on myself and on things that were nice in the moment, but not a necessity. Now, I'm more focused on saving for her, opening education accounts, and buying things she wants and needs to make her comfortable.

Leisure time I use to spend with or talk to friends has become less because I'm either helping her with homework, taking her to the park or the movies, watching TV with her, or carrying out other 'motherly' responsibilities.

One thing she has definitely taught me is patience. Trust me! I'm naturally an impatient person, and when things aren't happening on my time, I get aggressive. She has taught me how to be more understanding. Sometimes I have to think back and say, 'At the end of the day, she's still a child and she doesn't understand everything yet'. It's (motherhood) challenging at times, but it's a blessing I'm extremely grateful for.

 

Pamputtae - dancehall artiste and mother of two boys

 

Being a mother changed my life a lot. When I had my first son, things were kind of rough, and at one point, I had to be doing two jobs because it was me alone. When I had my second son, things were a little bit better because me come inna di artiste world now and things improve - but my lifestyle changed a lot.

I have two boys, so that makes me go harder in terms of work. One of the biggest lessons they have taught me is that my needs are more important than my wants. Right now, if I see something that I want, I think twice about it because that money can go towards the kids.

My mother never got the chance to see me grow up because she died when I was 10 years old. I grew up with my grandmother and my aunty dem and the struggle was real. I had to make some changes to make sure my kids don't struggle like I did.

 

Shenseea - entertainer and mother of two-year-old Rajeiro

 

Motherhood has changed my life for the better and has taught me how to truly love someone unconditionally and how to be selfless! I don't love anyone like how I love my son!

I've always been responsible, but now that I'm a mother, my priorities are always intact.

It is truly a gift being able to bring forth life. It's a great experience. I don't go out much anymore. Ever since I had my son, I've stopped smoking, and I use my free time to spend quality time with him.

My son has taught me to be patient! I was never a person who liked to wait, especially if things aren't going my way, but my son has taught me to give and take and learn other methods of getting my way.

When I just found out I was pregnant, honestly, I was happy. I didn't know how I would do it, but God provided for me. To be able to hold it down as a single mother, I will always be grateful. Being a mother is harder than I expected.

 

D'Angel - mother of Marco Dean

 

Motherhood has definitely given me a sense of responsibility, motivation and a drive I never had before. I have to create a certain platform for my son, and so he is the driving force in my life.

I sleep, wake, breathe and dream Marco Dean. He's first and foremost in my life, my number one priority. When I got pregnant, I was at the peak of my career, and to be honest, I wasn't ready - but motherhood is a blessing. Whether you are ready or not, when these children come, that's literally what they are - blessings.

I thought I was working hard before, but my son has taught me how to go harder. I have taken on a lot more because I have to ensure he's well taken care of. Sometimes I say to myself, 'If it wasn't for Marco, I wouldn't push so hard'. So I thank God for him every day.

 

Sophia Brown, reggae singer and mother of two

 

When you become a mother, you have to forget about yourself because you are living for you and another human being. Unfortunately for me, I am a single mother, so I had to make a lot of sacrifices to be the best mother I could for my children.

As you watch them grow to have their own personalities, you start to enjoy the bond and friendship that you develop with your child.

Being a working mother is not easy. Being away from your children is a big sacrifice because there is homework, parent-teacher consultations, sports activities, and so much more that you will miss, but you have to work to make sure they have food, clothing, and an education.

All the sacrifices, however, will be worth it because of all the joy and laughter and happiness they will bring you.

 

Debbie Bissoon, media personality and mother of a one-year-old

 

This journey has brought - from the beginning - a flurry of different emotions. When I first found out I was pregnant, I was in disbelief because I was told I couldn't get pregnant.

I remember when he was born and I had that first contact, I was just giving God thanks and I was so overcome with emotions, and from that point, I learnt how to let go and trust.

Because of my producer background, I'm used to wanting to be in control of things, but motherhood has taught me to let go and trust. It has also taught me patience. I have to be much more accommodating now to the process of dealing with another human being.

Since he came into this world, I've developed such a big love for him and I've become more thankful because of this blessing I've been gifted with. He has expanded that feeling of responsibility and has pushed me to do more. There's no comfort zone now. I'm big on creating a legacy for him.

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