The best statement that expresses the theme of the poem "Mother" by Lola Ridge is:
A parent's or guardian's love provides a light that reflects the brightest version of ourselves.
This choice captures the essence of the poem, as it emphasizes the transformative and illuminating quality of a mother's love, as depicted through the figurative language in the poem. The imagery of moonlight, shimmering reflections, and transfiguration suggests that the mother's love reveals and enhances the beauty and potential within her children.