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Hilal Her

Mothers - The Institution for Nation-Building

May 2024

The advancement of societies and nations has heavily relied on women’s unique influence, wellbeing, and nurturing richness. When it comes to nation-building, mothers have always emerged as paramount in shaping the character of forthcoming generations. Their boundless love, tireless sacrifice, and profound impact extend far beyond the confines of the family unit, shaping the course of history and the destiny of nations. Exploring the varied facets of mothers necessitates an examination of the historical, socio-cultural, and psychological dimensions that shape maternal identity, unveiling the enigmatic and dynamic nature of its impact and laying a foundation upon which societies are built. Across centuries, motherhood has been depicted as a fundamental mission, a profession, and an innate aspect of a woman’s being. It is believed that women’s internal instincts, which simultaneously ensure the healthy upbringing and development of their children, draw them inherently to motherhood. This innate capability positions women as the optimal educators for their offspring. They instill essential values and life lessons in their children from the earliest stages of development, guiding them through life’s trials and triumphs.



People often regard the notion that mothers can successfully balance their parental responsibilities with their professional pursuits as a modern idea, symbolizing the strides women have made in promoting gender parity. Nevertheless, over the course of history, there have been innumerable occurrences of mothers surpassing the limitations of the domestic sphere. These courageous women challenged and broke traditional conventions, making a profound and enduring impact on the world that extends well beyond the lives of their children. 
Dimensions of Mother-child Bond
To comprehend the impact of maternal leadership, it is essential to delve into the psychological and emotional dimensions of the mother-child bond. A mother’s love serves as a vital conduit for communicating to her child that they are deserving of affection and respect. This constant affection builds a sense of self-worth and confidence within the child. Mothers internalize this attachment, creating a reservoir of strength that empowers them to confront life’s trials and tribulations with bravery. Moreover, research in developmental psychology suggests that early interactions between mothers and infants shape cognitive and emotional development. The soothing cadence of a lullaby and the reassuring embrace of a hug—these motherly gestures serve as the building blocks of attachment and trust, laying the groundwork for healthy relationships and emotional well-being.
During challenging times, a mother’s comfort and empathy provide foundational emotional security for the child, while her teachings on morality shape the child’s ethical framework. The emotional regulation abilities and moral principles imparted through a mother’s devotion contribute significantly to the child’s emotional intelligence, fostering their development into emotionally resilient and morally grounded adults. Research suggests that secure attachment to a primary caregiver, often the mother, is essential for healthy socio-emotional development. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated the long-term effects of maternal warmth and responsiveness on various aspects of child development, including social competence and mental health.
Cultural Norms and Expectations
There are strong cultural norms and expectations surrounding motherhood on the subcontinent. Motherhood often defines women and expects them to fulfill traditional duties. Societal pressures reinforce these expectations and often shape women’s identities and life choices. This trend persists in rural villages, but with the advent of modernization, the traditional image of the stay-at-home mom has evolved. In its place, we now see the emergence of the modern mom, effortlessly juggling both her career and household responsibilities. These modern mothers are not only earners but also active contributors to their households. Despite ongoing criticism of working mothers and societal reluctance toward this lifestyle, these women have proven exceptional in balancing their professional and domestic duties.
Moreover, working moms serve as an exemplary role models for their kids, shaping their attitudes and behaviors to be more empathetic. Children raised by working mothers often exhibit greater support for women in the workplace, a stronger belief in gender equality, and a heightened sensitivity to enriched environments that promote women’s success.
Activism and Social Change
Maternal identity proves to be versatile, serving as a platform for various causes such as peace, welfare, environmental protection, and justice. Mothers have leveraged their position to drive societal shifts, aiming to improve their standing, access higher education, and secure resources. Beyond focusing solely on their own children, many of them have taken on a broader responsibility for the advocation of every child wellbeing. Activist women have utilized maternal language to advocate against child abuse, citing their concern as motivation to strive for a brighter future, not just for themselves but for all children and generations to come.
In modern society, mothers have stepped out of their familial confines and into the public arena. At the forefront of such activism are mothers demanding fairness for their children. These grieving mothers form collectives and gather their shared experiences to ask for accountability for the atrocities inflicted upon children. Through their relentless pursuit, they strive to forge a community that is safer and fairer for all. Initially sparked by personal circumstances, this kind of activism transforms into a powerful force, opening up new pathways previously inaccessible to women. In these moments, women discover that their maternal identity grants them moral authority to expose injustice and advocate for political reform. However, mainstream narratives of social movements often overlook or marginalize the contributions of mothers who are activists. By centering their voices and experiences, societies can gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of a mother’s love in shaping the course of history.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Mothers demonstrate remarkable capability in the face of misfortune. From refugee mothers escaping conflict to single mothers grappling with financial hardships, women worldwide exhibit extraordinary determination in overcoming daunting challenges.
The independence of Pakistan serves as a poignant reminder of the arduous struggle and immense sacrifices made during the freedom movement. It wasn’t just men but also women, many of whom were mothers tending to their households. These women fearlessly joined the ranks of the Muslim League’s political movement. The active involvement of Muslim women from the subcontinent undeniably propelled the independence movement forward. Despite numerous obstacles and societal constraints, these respective women asserted their presence in the political sphere, stepping out of their domestic confines to fight for a separate homeland. Their contributions, both as a mother and as trailblazing figures in their own rights continue to inspire generations, underscoring the transformative power of education, activism, and an unwavering commitment to peace and freedom. Such displays of resilience exhibited by mothers not only contribute to the attainment of goals but also make children learn not to succumb to life’s challenges and instead confront them head-on, seeking solutions and emerging victorious.
 Each new arrival on this earth enters with a mind devoid of impressions, akin to a fresh canvas awaiting the strokes of experience. It falls upon parents to shape these young minds and raise well-rounded and educated individuals. A mother’s involvement in nation-building stands as a central factor in the quest for a fair, harmonious, and prosperous society. Through her maternal role, a woman upholds invaluable societal norms, guiding the next generation towards a path of virtue and understanding. Mothers’ dedication allows us to evolve positively across generations, embodying the best aspects of human nature both individually and collectively.


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