I like this quote from an article that I recently re-read after being at this whole parent thing for half a year. It’s a wise summary of what I've been feeling recently.
The other day, I excused myself from an all-day meeting being held at a local country club. I lugged my trusty “black bag” to the restroom and set-up a now familiar scene. I unpacked hoses and funnels and replaced batteries before exhaustively pumping. I checked my handy “tot-report” while standing in the stall to better understand how No-Nap-Nora’s day was going. I researched six-month baby schedules while simultaneously trying to read countless emails that I was already behind on answering. Meanwhile, I heard someone in the restroom with me. I honestly paid her no attention until she made the comment, “Is someone in there making liquid gold?!”
And, I cried. The kind woman asked how old my baby is to which I proudly replied, “six months!” She answered my exclamation with a kind you’re doing a great job!
I never laid eyes on the woman. I wish I could have
Here's what I know about motherhood so far. I have surrounded myself with a great “village.” I read angry blog posts that are forwarded and re-posted all over the place about judging moms - working moms, stay-at-home moms, fun moms, boring moms, moms who love their cell-phones and moms who hate everything. All of that judgement that has been discussed, it's been the minority of my experience. More often, I’ve received ongoing support. A kind look, a friendly nod or overt encouragement. I’ve received this from stay-at-home moms, working moms, part-time working moms, and ladies who lunch at country clubs.
The person who has judged me? Myself. I am far too guilty of chasing the “all.” So, that's my pledge for these next few months of parenting - to strive not for perfection, but for a stability that is sustainable. I'll give-in to the dropped balls hitting the ground, and enjoy it. For myself. And, for No-Nap-Nora!
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