Mother’s Day is often portrayed in soft pastels and warm breakfasts in bed. But for many women, especially married mothers, this day can feel complicated — even hollow. Behind the handmade cards and fleeting moments of celebration lies a deeper, often invisible weight: the mental, emotional, and physical load of motherhood.
Many women find themselves quietly shouldering the bulk of domestic responsibilities, emotional labor, and decision-making — even while sharing a home and a life with a partner. From managing school schedules, doctor’s appointments, grocery lists, emotional support for the children, birthdays, laundry, and remembering to RSVP to the neighbor’s party, the list is endless. This phenomenon is known as cognitive load, and it doesn’t always divide evenly, even in a so-called partnership.
The hardest part? Feeling like a single mom while technically married. It’s a silent truth many women carry with grace and guilt, often brushing it off with a smile. But it’s okay to name the imbalance. It’s okay to say, “I’m exhausted,” even if your partner means well.
This Mother’s Day, we invite women to reflect — not just on how much they do, but on what they need. Sometimes that means having a candid conversation. Sometimes it means asking for more help. And sometimes, it means considering different paths, redefining what partnership and peace really look like for you.
To all the mothers carrying more than your share — we see you. You are not alone. You deserve rest, recognition, and a life that honors your strength and your softness.
Happy Mother’s Day.
