The traditional definition of a mother lacks fluidity. It bestows a female parent with nurturing qualities whether they exist or don’t. It makes assumptions about parenting based on that definition that may or may not be true. Unfortunately, court systems are notorious for making these kinds of assumptions. I hope to see that change in my lifetime.
I know mothers of all kinds. Great ones, horrific ones, kind ones, damaging ones. I’m one of the lucky ones to have, not only a birth mother who is an amazing, loving, dynamic woman, but other women in my life who have played important roles.
Today we celebrate those mothers however they come—with two-legged or four-legged children. May you all have a great day!
Note: The bear above was quickly photographed with a telephoto lens from the safety of our vehicle. Its mother was standing close by, ready to defend and protect.
it's (almost always) about the water... 
Yes you have been lucky to have had several excellent caring women in your life that helped you through difficult times when I was too far away to be of much help. I’m also thinking of Vi, your great grandma, today. She was a loving, caring person that looked after you and your siblings, especially when I was in the hospital for a month, and could not. You have turned out to be a loving caring person too, which has been so evident in your care of all the animals you have had in your care. So celebrate this Mother’s Day, too. You have done a great job of mothering.
It’s an adorable little cub, Sheryl! And yes… mothers…