I wanted to give a huge Happy Mother’s Day greeting to a particular type of superwoman. These superwomen make decisions and sacrifices for the children they love daily. And these women are often overlooked during Mother’s Day. So, I choose to recognize one of the various types of mothers that add an extra special touch to our lives. Their love helps us push forward, and these women should be recognized.

My superwoman is a lady by the name of Ora Bell Kelley. She was a hard-working woman with a beautiful soul. For whatever reason, my mother allowed Ora Bell to raise me. With help from her husband, she cared for me as if I was her own child. She told me stories about her childhood and some of the things she experienced once becoming an adult. 

As a child, I thought she was my mother. I didn't know that she wasn't my actual mother. Up to age 9, I thought that she was my biological mother and had a cool big sister. The bond we created superseded the average grandparent/grandchild relationship. She was my everything. Once I discovered that she was not my biological mother, it shattered my spirit. Even though it hurt, l accepted that she was my great grandmother, and nothing had to change. But I never stopped calling her momma.

I decided to write this because so many terrific women should receive recognition for their roles in the lives of children. Like my great-grandmother, women across the globe care for children that they did not conceive. They care for these children and give them love. My great-grandmother was able to give birth to one child. She wanted more children, but nature had other plans for her. So, she formally adopted a baby girl and informally adopted me. There are so many women like my great-grandmother. I wanted to give a great big shout-out to all the superwomen in the world. The love, care, and devotion you give are not in vain. Continue being you. Continue sharing your love.