Allomothering

While reading a Jodi Picoult book, I learned of allomothering. It is a widespread phenomenon among mammals and birds and is performed by any group member other than the genetic mother or father. Allomothering comprises a wide variety of behaviors for the sole purpose of caring for and protecting an infant.

Are we not all infants?

The story was about elephants allomothering, yet my mind went directly to all those in my life that have been allomothers to my children and to all those that have allomothered me. I've always heard the saying, "It takes a village..." which I believe, but I never had a word for the people of the "village" that have and continue to help me raise my daughters.

Have you ever sank to your knees and humbly asked that someone besides yourself could reach the heart of your child? To teach them through word, example or a random act of kindness? Have you had your prayers answered? I have... many times.

Recently, I did just that... sank to my knees. I couldn't seem to reach my child. I pleaded with my Heavenly Father. The next morning I received a text from a friend letting me know that thoughts of my daughter kept her awake at night and during her morning prayers she was prompted to reach out to her. Best part? She followed through on the prompting and touched my daughter's heart. Prayer answered.

A couple days later we came home to find a sealed envelope in our door. Our Bishop wrote her a letter and included a talk he thought she might like. I never read the letter, that's not my business. She read it, however, and then read out loud the talk to our family. It was perfect... just what she needed. Prayer answered.

I never asked the lady or the Bishop for help, but I did ask my Heavenly Father. Tonight I am grateful for those that live close to the spirit and that they act upon promptings. I am deeply grateful to those that have and continue to allomother/alloparent my children, all because of love. My cup runneth over.