During one of the Solitude Sessions in the Spirituality in Practice program at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois, I chose to spend time by the lakeside. The area was filled with geese, which I later learned were Canada Geese. Many of them were young—some appeared to be playing, chasing each other, or practicing their flying skills, while others simply floated, gliding smoothly across the water. A few seagulls and several smaller birds, which I couldn’t identify, are also in the scene. <!–split–>

To my right, I noticed a large, beautiful mother goose sat atop a big planter. I was certain she was nesting, as there was a sign nearby warning people to keep out of the nesting area. A moment later, I saw a woman walking toward the mother goose. As she approached—within about three or four meters by my estimate—the goose left her nest and began walking toward her. The woman continued moving forward, seemingly intrigued by the goose’s behavior. In response, the mother goose spread her wings and let out a few sharp quacks. Undeterred, the woman kept advancing. As she neared the nest, the mother goose suddenly flew on top of her. Still, the woman tried to take a few more steps forward. That’s when the goose began attacking her head, wings flapping furiously. The woman raised her backpack to shield her face and ran off, while the goose chased her a short distance. Once the woman was far enough away, the mother goose returned to her nest and calmly resumed her post, facing the lake.

The mother goose, who seemed calm and graceful, transformed into a fierce protector when her nest was threatened. Her carefully clipped wings spread wide, flapping with force to drive away the intruder—only to return to a state of quiet poise once the danger had passed. I called them wings of love.

Human mothers may not have wings, but I believe they possess their own creative—and sometimes fierce— ways of shielding their children from harm. I realize now how many times Mama Pat must have spread her invisible wings over our lives, especially when we were young. I’m deeply grateful we were nurtured and protected under her wings of love.

What are your memories of your mother’s wings of love? As we reflect on them, let us give thanks to God for creating mothers with that rare blend of tenderness and strength.

To all the mothers of the earth—we honor you, and we are truly grateful for your wings of love.

As Proverbs 31:30-31 says: Charm can be deceiving, and beauty fades away, but a woman who honors the Lord deserves to be praised. Show her respect— praise her in public for what she has done.

Happy Mother’s Day!