This Mother's Day was a little different. Every previous Mother's Day I've been at home and have been able to spend the day celebrating my mother with her and the rest of my family. This year, I'm not even in the same country as my mom. While she's back home in the US, I'm studying abroad in Chile, almost 5,000 miles away.

It's weird not being there with my mom on this day. I didn't think it would be too different, if we're being honest. I could still communicate with her and tell her I love her. But it was different. It was difficult not being there with her. I couldn't give her a hug, serve her by helping out around the house, or cherish the day by spending time with her. It was hard.

There are a few things I learned from spending this day away from my mom.

First, I realized how much I actually miss my family. Being so far away from them all is hard. This is much different than being away for college. When I was in school, I was just a 2-hour drive away from seeing them. I could see them if I missed them. Now, if I want to see my family, it's a 9-hour flight back home. While I'm loving my time here in Chile, I'm missing spending moments like today with them, and I look forward to coming back home.

Second, I realized I can still show love on Mother's Day. I have an amazing host mother here who has showed me nothing but love over the past week of being here. She always makes sure I'm well-fed, I'm warm enough, I remember to take a jacket with me before leaving the house, and so much more. While I couldn't celebrate Mother's Day with my own mom, I could still serve the mother figure I have here.

To those who can't celebrate with your mom today, there are ways you can still serve. Call your mom and tell her how much she means to you. Let her know you miss her. Find those around you who show you the type of love that a mother has. Thank the mother-figures around you. Serve them well.

This day has so much more meaning to me now. I love you, Mom.