Acknowledging the mothers of SMART-TD

On this Mother’s Day, SMART-TD extends our heartfelt gratitude and admiration to every mother in our union. Your unwavering commitment, incredible strength, and daily sacrifices embody the very essence of what it means to serve both your family and your fellow brothers and sisters in transportation. 

Transportation jobs are demanding, our schedules are relentless, and the toll both of these take on our personal lives is felt deeply. We work long, unpredictable hours, often living life on the Extra Board and on call at all hours of the day and night. These realities make fulfilling our roles as parents uniquely challenging. We miss milestones, we can’t always be the coach for our kid’s team or the classroom volunteer at school events. And no matter how much we wish it were different, these missed moments weigh heavily on us. 

But let’s be clear. There is no shame in what we do. The path we walk is paved with purpose. Every shift we work, every hour we sacrifice is in the service of our families. Our kids might not always see us in the stands or in the school drop-off and pick-up lines, but they see the example we set. They see the grit, the determination, the selflessness, and they carry those lessons with them through life. 

To the mothers in SMART-TD: Thank you. Thank you for every hour of rest given up managing family responsibilities during your off time. Thank you for the strength you show as you juggle two full-time roles (professional and parent) with unmatched grace and determination. You inspire us not only as union members, but as people. You are leaders, you are warriors, and you are deeply valued. 

While the outside world may not always understand the depth of the sacrifices you make to build a better life for your families, we see it in one another. More importantly, our children see it. And in their eyes, and in their future, your legacy will shine. 

From all of us at SMART-TD, Happy Mother’s Day. Thank you for everything that you do!