P. A. Chacko SJ
As the Covid pandemic is on the rampage all over the world, it is imperative that we join in solidarity with our sobbing, lamenting mothers who are either suffocated by the pandemic or are at the bedside of their near and dear ones who are victims of the disease. Many have lost their breadwinner partners in life. Many are widowed. Many have lost their children and have to travel a solitary path. Some may be on the footpath struggling for oxygen or for a hospital bed. The poor among them may be in the kitchen looking sadly at empty food containers and pans. We wish all these mothers God’s consoling and strengthening touch to tide over this crisis.
There are other mothers who are suffocated by a patriarchal society controlled by men folk. They have little or no opportunity to express their needs, feelings or ideas. Even God has been privatised by men folk as a male God. On the other hand, many believe that God is both mother and father. Many question why God is identified as he God. Food for thought indeed!
May God, our Mother and Father, extend the hand of abundant blessings on all mothers.