In the simple quiet moments when life slows down and memories come in waves, one truth stands unwavering: A mother's love is the cornerstone of our existence.

If you sit and think of the fondest times in your life, your mom is probably very much involved.

From the first flutter of life within her womb, a mother's love takes root, blossoming into a force beyond measure.

A mother's love is a steady hand in the tumultuous seas of life, guiding us with unwavering devotion through the highs and lows. It's the whispered words of encouragement before a daunting challenge, the prayers offered up in moments of uncertainty.

It's the backbone of our resilience, the bedrock upon which we build our dreams. But it's not just the grand gestures that define a mother's love; it's the everyday moments, the small acts of kindness that speak volumes.

It’s in the late-night lullabies sung softly in the dim light of a nursery, soothing cries and calming fears with each tender note.

It's in the scraped knees kissed and the tears wiped away, lending a reassuring presence in times of pain.

It’s in the homemade birthday cakes and tea parties, or the cheers you hear from the stands at baseball or football games.

It's in the wakeful nights taking care of the infant who is trying to get his days and nights back in order, or later in life for the mother who is waiting for her nearly adult child to get safely home.

It’s in the best tasting soup when you are not feeling well – that soup that no one else can make like she does – and in her hugs which are almost healing.

It's the homemade meals prepared with love, the laundry folded with care, the sacrifices made without hesitation. It's the countless hours spent in selfless devotion, pouring heart and soul into shaping the lives of those she loves.

Yet, amidst these daily routines come moments of pure joy, such as the laughter shared over inside jokes, the adventures embarked upon with excitement, and the memories that will last a lifetime.

When those moments come during a child’s youth, a mother’s main responsibility is to be a parent and instructor; but when that child becomes an adult, that mother becomes a built-in best friend, a confidante who knows her children better than they know themselves.

A mother’s love is completely indescribable. It's a love that knows no bounds, no conditions, no limits, for it is the purest form of love available.

I am so blessed to have a mom who did all the above and more, and I will forever be grateful for all those things. But more importantly, I’m grateful for her strong faith that never wavered and for all that she taught me.

So, to all the mothers out there – the unsung heroines of our lives – we say thank you!

Thank you for your unwavering love, your boundless compassion, and your endless sacrifice.

Ashley Carter is a wife, mother, and grandmother living in Elmore County, where she and her husband run Farm to Table Living and Carter Farms. She is the author of "Unexplainable: Inspirational Stories of God's Love in the Most Unique Ways." Ashley serves as Controller and Executive Assistant at 1819 News. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email ashley.carter@1819news.com.

Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.