Book excerpt: 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 Towards Everyone Is As Much Part Of Their Being As Breathing. An Address At The Global Peace Initiative Of Women Religious And Spiritual Leaders, Palais Des Nations, Geneva, October 7, 2002. Published By The Disciples Of Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, Affectionately Known As Mother, Or Amma The Hugging Saint.