I have been a full-time mother for 12 years. I cannot count how many times I have been told that finding other things to fulfill me would be a good idea. I cannot imagine having more 'other things' in my life right now. There are so many things I do in a day, so many things I learn about myself and the world. Where would I fit more in? I never want to give more to the world than I do my husband and children. My time with them is precious and finite and I cannot stretch it like taffy. I want to savor it and really enjoy it.
I feel like the perception of mothering is very altered from the reality. People look at me with pity, as though I accidentally had 4 children and am now forced to care for them. Staying home is a choice I have made and I would not have it any other way. I am not an autobot who does chores and keeps my children clean. Mothering is a multii-layered experience. I am constantly thinking and processing. I find myself using creativity and also being quite business-like. Frankly, I am at a time in which I am in love with every aspect of my life. Even the painful parts.
Each day I am so thankful for the time with our children. I am training them up to go out on their own, and while it will be tinged with sadness I also look forward to the time when they venture out on their own.
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ReplyDeletePreach it sister! :)
ReplyDeleteI hear the same kinds of negative comments all the time. I'm pitied because I don't have a "real life" with time to myself. Motherhood is a privilege. God has gifted us with time to mother our children. It makes me sad that so many other women aren't able to embrace the truth. Children aren't a burden, they are a supreme blessing from a God who loves us!
Dawn
This was encouraging for me! I am surrounded by young women who don't have kids yet. In 2 separate small groups that I've been in over the last couple of years, I've been the only one with children. It can be hard to not covet their time that they can take to fulfill themselves with hobbies and activities. But I need to remember that God has given me a time in my life to serve, and I should see that as a blessing... not an inconvenience.
ReplyDeleteDawn - I bet you do hear negative comments, lol! "Wow, you sure have your hands full!" You inspire me everyday with my own kids. When I start to feel sorry for myself I remember that you have 7 would welcome more!
ReplyDeleteSarah- I am so pleased that you felt encouraged. I think when women share their hearts with each other that can happen. I, too, have found myself coveting free time. But our time we'll come - maybe we'll take a cruise together someday! :)