Mother
To write and record my "Mother" collection has been a step toward healing for me. I needed to write these songs. I miss my mom so much and though I will be trying to reconcile this loss for the rest of my life, in getting to share this music, I have felt less alone. I have felt hope. Grief, in all its many forms, is absolutely dreadful. But one tiny gift is that it carves out space in us to understand and empathize with one another on an entirely different and richly beautiful level. In a way, grief gives birth to a new kind of love. In remembering my mom and processing grief in these songs, I've caught my first glimpse of that new love. As Mother's Day approaches, whether your mom is with you or not, whether you have a good relationship with your mom or not, whether you are a mom or not – I hope you feel the presence of love, new or familiar. And whatever you're swimming through in this life, I hope these songs can be a friend you along the way. Thank you so much for listening.
— Ryan, via sleepingatlast.com (May 15, 2023)
The artwork for "Mother" was made by one of my mom's and my favorite artists in the universe, Joey Chou. Joey was sweet enough to not only paint this cover for the song in her honor (using her favorite colors, as well as imagery from her favorite place, Hawai'i), but also, when he learned that my mom was sick and spending her birthday in a hospital, he made her a custom birthday art piece. It made my mom so happy and brought many beautiful tears. I am forever grateful for these gifts that Joey has given to my mom, myself and my family. Learn more about Joey and his gorgeous work here!
— Ryan via sleepingatlast.com (May 9, 2022)
