As we navigate through grocery stores, library aisles, or even stroll down the street, well-intentioned strangers often gaze at us with a blend of nostalgia and affection. We all know what’s coming: “Savor this time; it goes by so fast.”
Here’s the reality: I truly do savor these moments. I was the mom cradling my newborn at 3 AM, reminding myself to soak in the sight of her tiny frame on my chest, her delicate fingers wrapped around mine, and the way she would stretch her arms out wide. I am present for these fleeting moments and appreciate the unique chapter in our family’s journey.
But what about the challenging moments? What do those strangers say about the days that are anything but sweet?
Take this morning, for instance, when my 22-month-old threw a two-hour tantrum, and I found myself exclaiming, “I can’t deal with this anymore!” before retreating to my bedroom with a chocolate bar, desperately trying to regain my composure. Or that time at the store when the girls argued so fiercely that they toppled our cart, their screams reverberating throughout the aisles.
What about those unbearable moments? Is it realistic to expect enjoyment from them?
These are the times when you might feel like you’re failing as a parent—when your patience wanes, your words become too sharp, and you struggle to show love.
Moments have a peculiar way of moving forward. They tick, flash, and sometimes crawl. They come regardless of our readiness or desire. Some moments are easier to appreciate than others, while some moments leave a sting or a bitter taste.
And yes, we are all striving not to overlook these moments because deep down, we understand that the advice rings true: time flies, and we should treasure this unique and precious phase of our lives. But let’s be honest: we won’t relish every single moment. Motherhood is tough, and that’s just the way it is.
So to all the weary moms—newbies, survivors, and those at the end of their ropes, let go of the pressure to enjoy every second. It’s just one more thing you might feel you “should” do to be a good mom. Here’s a more realistic perspective: you are already a great mother. Your fierce love for your kids matters most.
What if we shifted our mindset from trying to enjoy every moment to simply leaning into them? Embracing those tough times can be a form of defiance, a way to assert that the challenging moments do not define us. It takes bravery to acknowledge and dig into each moment, even when it feels thorny.
So now, when faced with whining, bickering, exhaustion, or worry, I’ll seek out something to embrace within that moment: a chocolate smear on a cheek from a sneaky cookie heist, a new word like “ridiculous” that my daughter tries out, or even just a chuckle at how wildly off-course the day has gone.
I want to truly live, fully and audaciously, even amid the exhausting years of parenthood. So the next time someone advises you to enjoy every moment as you’re about to lose your mind, just smile and say, “I will.” Then, with every ounce of resolve you have, find one tiny moment to grasp and celebrate, no matter how small.
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Summary
Motherhood is a challenging journey where not every moment can be cherished. Instead of striving to enjoy every second, we should focus on leaning into the tough moments, embracing the chaos, and recognizing that our love for our children is what truly matters.
Keyphrase: Embracing the Moments of Motherhood
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