Dear john,

For many, Mother’s Day is a celebration. A time to hold your family close, and to love and care for them. For years, I wasn’t sure I was ever going to be a mother. After two miscarriages and a still birth, I wasn’t sure if God had ever meant for me to be a mother. When I finally gave birth to Jordan, he was a miracle for me and for my family. And for 17 years, Mother’s Day always meant breakfast with the family I had tried so hard to build.

Pictured above: Rep. McBath with her son, Jordan. Jordan was killed in 2012.

After Jordan was murdered, Mother’s Day became a bit bittersweet. I always visit his gravesite, and while I think back to the celebrations we had, I know that for far too many across America, Mother’s Day can be a solemn, wrenching reminder of what we have lost. 

Becoming a mom was one of the greatest joys of my life, and there's not a day that goes by that my heart does not ache for my son, Jordan. I know other mothers feel the same.

For all of the mothers out there, and I mean all of you, thank you for all that you do to love and support our families. And for those who find this day difficult, my heart and my love are always with you.