As we edge closer to celebrating the mothers in our lives, it is important to remember that every mother was once just a girl with only herself to look after.

The dreams and hopes and aspirations these women had, both for themselves and for their children, before they became mothers, often vanished in a flutter as reality took over and day-to-day life forced them to be more practical.

But the five women interviewed below, are not mothers yet, and their outlook on life and motherhood is a reminder that a mother is a woman before anything else, and that although life may change once she bears children, the values held dear before that should never be forgotten.

Adriana Magro, student

“Biologically – and realistically– speaking, I would say that having kids in your late 20s is ideal, however, in my books, it would have to be in my mid- or late-30s. Having said that, I like living on a day-to-day basis, and I’ve never been one to fantasise about my fairy tale wedding or how many children I would one day have… Far from it.

“Maybe, in the future, I will have children, but there are many other things that come before that on my life’s to-do list, including building myself a career, travelling, and doing things that having children can sometimes hinder you from doing.

I think the hardest part of motherhood will be seeing my children go through any sort of suffering and not being able to make that particular situation better

“If that time ever comes, however, I think the hardest part of motherhood will be seeing my children go through any sort of suffering and not being able to make that particular situation better. Either that, or having my children go down the wrong path. I’m sure I’d end up evaluating what I could have done better as a parent.

“In fact, as a mother, I’d want to teach my children honesty, loyalty and ambition, which are three things I’ve always championed in others and worked hard to achieve for myself.”

Vivienne Bajada, information coordinator

“I come from a family of strong women and was practically raised by four single aunts. That’s why I’ve come to believe that being a mother, or a motherly figure, does not necessarily constitute giving birth, but actually showcasing those qualities typically related to motherhood, like unconditional love and care. So, yes, I would like to become a mother one day, but I’ve never been precoditioned towards that goal.

“In terms of finding the right time to make it happen, however, I think, more than my age, it’ll be things like being financially stable and having a good support system that will affect my decision.

“From what I’ve seen, heard and experienced so far, acceptance seems to be the hardest part of being a mother or a father, as many parents tend to hand down their own hopes and dreams to their children, without really realising that their offspring have their own wishes and characters. So, one thing I will work hard at, if I ever become a parent, is accepting their life choices, and at teaching them kindness and loyalty.”

Fran Aquilina, opera singer and music teacher

“I suppose, biologically, your late teens or early 20s would be the best time to become a mother, but does this really work well in today’s society?

“I have been living in different countries for the past eight years, and I’ve travelled, and worked with many amazing theatre companies and have only had myself to think about. In fact, if there’s anything I’ve learnt, is that I’m lucky and privileged to live in a society that has allowed me to further myself as a person and as a professional. That being said, I’m really excited to be moving back to Malta and starting a new chapter in my life.

Biologically, your late teens or early 20s would be the best time to become a mother, but does this really work well in today’s society?

“Realistically, I don’t think there was ever a time when I didn’t want kids. I knew with the career I chose that I would have to wait, but I still remain excited about the prospect.

“I have an amazing mum, sister and grandma who I’ve looked up to all my life, and they’ve instilled in me their love for children.

“I’ve also been a teacher since I was 18, so kids have always been very much part of my life, and when I have my own, I want them to be truthful and honest to themselves and about what they believe in. I also want them to be determined, considerate, generous with their affection, and be grateful even for the little things in life.”

Karly Naudi, banker

“If I had to be honest, I’d have to say that I don’t really know if I want to become a mother. I’m an aunt to three nephews and a niece and, even though this exposure to children has enabled me to learn how to look after them, I think it’s the knowledge that I’ll be able to go back to my normal life that helps me maintain my cool. I have experienced nappy changes, burping after feeding and wake-up cries halfway through the night and none of it was pleasant.

“From my limited knowledge, I would say that adjusting your lifestyle around your children is the hardest part of being a parent. But I’m sure that, eventually, it will become routine, as everything else does. That’s why I would say that your mid-thirties is the ideal time to have a child, as that gives you time to enjoy life, travel the world and party to your heart’s content.

“Ultimately, if I ever do become a mother, I’d want my kids to always follow their heart and do what they feel is right, regardless of what others may say. I’d also focus on teaching them to show kindness and respect to everyone, as nobody knows what internal struggles others may be facing.”

Emma Farrugia, student

“Scientifically, there is definitely an optimal time to have children but, subjectively speaking, I wouldn’t say there is.

“I feel that, as a society, we are moving away from those traditional norms, and people, specifically women, are becoming more inclined to add different aspects – or, dare I say, purposes – to their lives, other than just being child bearers and homemakers.

“Even so, I would like to be a mother as I’ve always felt that I have a maternal instinct and, after being fortunate enough to be raised by such an understanding, nurturing and loving mother, I hope to be that person to someone else one day too.

Women are becoming more inclined to add different purposes to their lives, other than just being child bearers and homemakers

“I think most parents tend to resent their child’s first day of school because their kids would be leaving the nest for the first time.

“Honestly, however, I think I’d feel proud and accomplished, and I’m sure I would be looking forward to some time for myself by that point.

“I have no doubt that having children will change my life, as they’d be fully dependent on me.

“Nevertheless, life is a constant cycle and that change doesn’t necessarily have to be positive or negative.”

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