As mothers, we experience so much and are responsible for even more. It helps to reflect on our connections to this thing called motherhood and examine how, by loving ourselves, we can love our children better.

I heard my doctor say for the first time, “It’s true. You are going to be a mommy.” With every little kick and stretch, I wondered, “Are you an Alison or a Michael?”

I held you in my arms for the very first time…and fell more in love. I loved you through nighttime feedings, squirmy baths, and congested days of Vicks VapoRub.

I sat through the theatre lessons, the soccer practices, and the yucky faces as you ate one pea (just one!).  

With open arms to comfort you, kisses goodnight, and our nighttime rituals, you grew, and grew, and grew from an awkward caterpillar finding your way into a beautiful butterfly whose social life left Mom’s arms emptier than before. 

I lose myself as I become the gooey highchair cleaner, schedule timekeeper, head household chef, and bill payer. Anxiety hits when science fair projects are due, tuition is due, and Mom comes down with the flu.  

Dear Moms,

We try to do it all, and reality hits. We are not perfect, yet our children love us anyway. God loves us always and wants us to take time to rest, and to love ourselves. Let the laundry slide, order take out for the family, soak in a long bubble bath (with the door closed), or sign up for an art class. Moms, do what you love so that you can love what you do. Forgive yourself when you feel like a mom-flop, and claim God’s grace everyday. God wants the best for you and that means loving you–the crazy, wonderful, exhausted, God-rocking woman who loves herself–every curve, laugh line, and cake-ball pound. Children need to see that Moms love themselves, too!

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

–Matthew 11:28  ■