There have been countless moments when I’ve had to swallow my anger and shrink into an apologetic version of myself to appease people who, in retrospect, were clearly in the wrong.
My high school boyfriend convinced me that his flirting with other girls and ignoring my calls was acceptable by suggesting that I was more secure than that. “Oh, I’m sorry. You’re right; I overreacted,” I found myself saying, ready to plead for another chance if he threatened to end things.
During college, after confronting a friend about her canceling our plans, she unfriended me on Facebook, making me feel like I was simply too dull to hang out with—especially when I saw her posting pictures with more glamorous friends who had snagged a night out with her. “It’s okay if you want to come over another day. Maybe I forgot that you said you were busy,” I texted, hoping she wouldn’t leave me on read.
I often made excuses for those who turned their backs on me, believing it was a strength to see the best in others. But everything changed when I became a mother. I realized that I could no longer tolerate bad treatment. I needed to recognize my worth and ensure that others understood I wouldn’t be treated like an old piece of candy.
Life as a Mom Who Knows Her Value
So how’s life as a mom who knows her value? It’s still challenging. Finding genuine friends is tough, and learning when to stand up to others feels like climbing a steep hill. While I may not walk around like a celebrity, I understand it’s crucial for my child to have a parent who advocates for him.
Learning to assert myself was the first step, and I encourage other “sensitive” mothers to do the same. After all, having feelings is human. It’s those who act like they’re the only ones with emotions (judging us for being offended, yet playing the victim when faced with criticism) who need to reconsider their behavior.
Just recently, a waitress chuckled when she accidentally spilled hot marinara sauce on my lap, narrowly missing my newborn. I promptly spoke to her manager; such carelessness could have harmed my child. It wasn’t just about being more careful; she owed me an apology for her disregard.
When my OB wrote inaccuracies in my medical records because I had the audacity to ask questions, I penned an 11-page letter to his department, highlighting the need for better training and educational materials for female patients. I refused to be glared at for making informed choices about my own body.
In college, I didn’t have the courage to tell my gynecologist that I felt uncomfortable with a male student present during my appointment. But now, I’m taking charge and asserting my needs, even if it doesn’t sit well with others.
My mother once insulted my husband’s worth because he chose to stay home with our son. Months later, she suggested moving in with us without consulting me first. I made it clear that she needed to respect our parenting decisions and reminded her of her previous accusations against my husband. Her response? “Really? You’re just too sensitive. This is why we didn’t want to talk to you about it.” Excuse me?! You can’t invite yourself into my home without discussing it and then turn the blame on me for expecting respect.
My friends, in-laws, and siblings often treat me like a villain for “misinterpreting” their words, but I’ve long since turned off my filter for toxic people. No longer will I sugarcoat their comments just to avoid conflict. I refuse to be shamed for having feelings simply because they want to say whatever they please without facing my reactions or the consequences of their words.
It’s a pity that many mothers still apologize for others, make excuses to smooth over uncomfortable situations, or turn a blind eye to friendships that aren’t worth keeping. I’ve exhausted myself trying to be passive in the face of cruelty and selfishness, so now I’m channeling that former passivity into a dignified strength that my son can admire one day. If I can stand up to those who hurt me or dismiss my needs, I’ll be able to voice my opinions in school meetings, family gatherings, medical appointments, and more—especially when my child’s well-being is at stake.
Yes, I may be more sensitive than some, but that’s not a flaw, and it’s unreasonable to expect me to suppress my feelings while allowing others to treat me with disrespect. Sorry, not sorry. I’m not “too sensitive,” you’re just rude.
Resources for Navigating Challenges
For those navigating similar challenges, I recommend exploring resources like Mayo Clinic, an excellent source for pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re on a fertility journey, check out Make a Mom’s article for valuable insights. Don’t forget to boost your fertility with supplements mentioned in our other post here.
Conclusion
In summary, recognizing your worth is crucial, especially as a parent. Standing up for yourself is not just about feeling good; it’s about setting an example for your children and ensuring they understand the importance of respect in all relationships.
Keyphrase: standing up for yourself as a mother
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]