John – if you’ve been following my journey, then you might already know how heartbreaking this holiday is for me.

This year, I joined some friends to talk about what being a Black mother means to us.

Mother’s Day holds a special meaning for mothers who’ve lost a son, and, since Jordan was murdered, I spend every year reflecting on what motherhood means for me.

Today, I remembered being a young woman just out of college:

My mother had sacrificed so much for me to receive an education, and there was nothing more my heart wanted than to be the same, selfless parent to my own children.

When Jordan came into my life, I prayed my heart and soul out for him to grow into all that I know he could be. 

This November will be ten years since he was senselessly murdered for playing loud music.

Mother’s Day might not be the same without my son, but every year this memory reminds me what it means to be a Mom on a Mission.

My Jordan is gone, but with thousands of lives being lost to unnecessary gun violence, I know Jordan would want me to continue mothering the communities that poured so much into him.

And, because of his love and his spirit, my prayers for Jordan have now become prayers for our communities.

John – thank you for standing with me in this fight, and be sure to tell that special someone you love them.

Happy Mother’s Day,

Lucy McBath