I Am the Mother-HeartBy Grace D. Brewer(In “The Progressive Woman.”)
By Grace D. Brewer
(In “The Progressive Woman.”)
I am the Mother-heart of this nation.
I have loved and nourished its little ones in age-long mother fashion; have swelled with pride when the nation has protected them from disease; come nearly to bursting with unuttered gratitude when happiness has come to the youth of the land.
I have spent many long, sleepless nights weeping over the fate of millions of my babies, forced from home, school and mother, to the factories and shops of the cities, and all night have wondered “why” and “how long?”
I am haunted by the childish protestations, desirous glances from faded, childish eyes, and bleed anew when I see my children marching from the factory door, their bent and bony figures clad in rags.
I, the Mother-heart of the nation have been deceived, tricked and defrauded.
I believed that modern industry, with all the improvements, could provide for my infants; believed the mighty labor-saving machines would not require the help of my babies to feed the world; believed the children would be given plenty of time in which to grow healthy bodies.
I have, however, awakened to existing conditions. No longer will I be submissive.
I have ever been a power for good, but seldom rebellious.
I am now pulsing red blood. I will temper my mother-love with human justice and stand only for right.
I will help restore to my babies the privileges of their years.
I can labor for justice and hover my young flock.
I no longer send out purely love throbs, but send warnings to those who have been blinded by gold.
I beat in harmony with the masses struggling for freedom, feeling confident of results. I beat with will and determination, a glorious future before me.
I know the day will come when the Mother-heart of all nations will be content because of the reign of justice.
I realize my responsibility and beat the faster.
I am the Mother-heart of this nation.