The essence of motherhood is not restricted to women who have given birth; it is a principle inherent in both women and men. It is an attitude of the mind. It is love – and that love is the very breath of life. No one would say, “I will breathe only when I am with my family and friends; I won’t breathe in front of my enemies.” Similarly, for those in whom motherhood has awakened, love and compassion for everyone are as much a part of their being as breathing.
~ Mata Amritanandamayi known throughout the world as Ammachi, or Beloved Mother ~