A Mother’s reflection

 

A Mother’s reflection ….written by Lisa Saracino

When I was just two days old, my teenage birth mom gave me up for adoption in the Bahamas. I was adopted by two people who couldn’t have children of their own. They struggled with alcoholism and abusive ways which made my childhood feel dark and uncertain. In the midst of that, one thing brought me light and hope: I dreamed about having a family someday. More than anything, I wanted to have children. In fact, I thought more about having lots of children than I ever did about having a husband, but in spite of that, God had plans to bless me with the best husband by sending Ron into my life eventually. I’m so grateful for my loving husband. My deepest desire was to give my children the love I wished I had received. Something made me know, that the love I’d have for my future children would heal the deep pain in my soul that years of feeling unloved left. 

As a teenager, I became pregnant. Even then, I didn’t fully understand what being a mother would mean. But the moment I saw my first child, I realized that the love I had imagined was nothing compared to the overwhelming love I actually felt. That same depth of love continued with each child I had. Becoming a mother changes everything—your life suddenly becomes centered on someone else, while still being your own at the same time. Your babies’ needs are your top priority and we moms wouldn’t have it any other way. 

With that enormous love comes an equally enormous weight of care, concern, and worry. I had to learn that my relationship with God would be the only way to prepare me for whatever lay ahead.

My journey as a mother has not been easy. My oldest child developed epilepsy and to this day suffers from grand mal seizures. My second child is autistic and faced many behavioral challenges that lasted for years. Then, when I had Zachary, he nearly passed away from diabetic ketoacidosis. By God’s grace, he was spared, and I am forever thankful. Three of four children with life altering illnesses, how could I navigate through that heaviness? I felt truly helpless. Only God could guide me through these deep, murky and cold waters. 

It was during Zach’s hospitalization that I experienced a defining moment in my faith. By that point, I had been part of the Church of Christ for several years. Sitting in that hospital room, facing the possibility that my son might not survive, I came to a profound realization: the outcome was not in my hands. No matter what I wanted or hoped for, it would ultimately be according to God’s will.All the love I poured into Zach wouldn’t save him, only God could decide that. 

In that moment of deep anguish, a true peace came over me—one that only God could provide. As I surrendered my fears to Him and prayed for my son, I found comfort in knowing that God would carry me through, no matter the outcome. That moment strengthened my faith in a way that would sustain me through the years ahead. The touchable, tangible peace was enormous and penetrated my heart permanently. 

Later came more challenges—Zach was diagnosed with diabetes and celiac disease. I continued to face concerns with seizures for my oldest daughter and ongoing behavioral struggles with my middle child. Through it all, I learned what it truly means to rely on God.

This Mother’s Day, I reflect on the richness of what it means to be a mother. Not all blessings come in the form of cuddles, kisses, and happy moments. Some blessings come disguised as trials—experiences that shape you into a stronger person, a stronger servant of God, and a stronger support for others.

Through my struggles, I have been able to help others who are walking similar paths. I have learned what it means to be thankful even in hardship. Every trial that Ron and I have faced, both together and individually, has been something God has carried us through—lifting us up and over and sometimes holding our hands right through it. 

Looking back now, I can better understand why those struggles were part of my journey. Being a mother has taught me that blessings are multifaceted. They are not always what I expected, but they are always what God thought I needed and ultimately, something to be grateful for.

In the end, I wouldn’t change a thing. Every hardship has strengthened my faith and deepened my gratitude—for both the good and the difficult moments. Because if it is God’s will, then that is enough and what matters most to me. I trust Him, and He will never leave me… or you…We can always find peace in that.❤️

– Lisa Saracino 

Here are some scriptures I find great comfort in. 

Proverbs 3:5–6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”

Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Isaiah 40:30–31
“Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.”