Motherhood: Happy Mother's Day from Bertha's!

Dear Readers, this one is a special one from all of us at Bertha's! Motherhood = Evaluation + Adaptation

Motherhood defies logic, constantly challenging my need for structure and predictability. Parenting an autistic child demands problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional growth.

Each day is a cycle of observation, troubleshooting, and refining strategies to foster both independence and security. Beyond the home, I navigate social systems, advocate for my child, and decode the unspoken rules of parenting.

Despite the chaos, this journey is a masterclass in resilience and emotional intelligence.

Mother’s Day is a significant celebration, a rare moment when women finally receive recognition for their immense role in society. After all, they are caregivers and responsible for bringing new generations into the world.

Yet, motherhood is often a lonely and challenging journey. Maternal guilt is deeply ingrained in our society, making many women feel like they can never fully meet expectations. At the same time, motherhood is also a path of discovery and deep care.

This Mother’s Day, we extend our thoughts to all mothers, those who have lost their children, those who cannot conceive, and those who have chosen adoption. May this be a day of reflection and self-care.

Our society remains unfair when it comes to motherhood. There is no “right” way to be a mother. Women are judged if they pause their careers, yet they face criticism if they return to work. Instead of motherhood being a shared responsibility between families and society (because, as the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child, with childcare, schools, flexible work policies, and public support systems), too often, women bear the brunt of this structural failure alone.

Mother’s Day reminds us of the ongoing fight against gender inequality and the urgent need for a more just and supportive society.

Bertha's Legacy Team