By: Jordan Ellis
I recently found myself at the local Target, picking up some essentials for my new place, when I stepped into the elevator with a mother pushing her baby in a stroller. As I glanced down, I noticed she had a few cases of beer stashed below. When our eyes met, she immediately said, “Oh my gosh, please don’t judge me!”
Her reaction struck me. It was disheartening to see that she felt the need to justify her choices to a complete stranger. “I would never judge you!” I assured her, adding a light-hearted comment about how parenting a toddler often makes me crave a drink too. We shared a laugh, but her initial worry lingered in my mind.
This moment highlighted a troubling aspect of our society: the pervasive judgment that mothers, particularly millennial ones, face. With the rise of social media and parenting forums, it seems like every choice we make is scrutinized by those who don’t know us or our circumstances. For the new mom I encountered, the idea of being judged for buying beer must have felt overwhelming, especially with an 8-month-old in tow.
Let’s be real—judgment is a natural human instinct. We all make quick assessments about others. However, it’s essential to remember that voicing those judgments can be harmful, especially when it comes to parenting choices. I didn’t get a chance to tell that mom that I’m hardly in a position to critique anyone’s shopping habits. As I roamed the aisles, my cart was filled with snacks like potato chips, fruit snacks, and the occasional soda—my guilty pleasure. People might look at me sideways for letting my child indulge in junk food, but honestly, that’s what the self-checkout lane is for.
There are far more pressing concerns on a mom’s mind: How do I keep my child safe? Can I save enough for their future? Will they grow into decent human beings? The last thing we need is to worry about whether we’re buying too much beer for a barbecue or if another mom is judging us for it. And trust me, the mom with the toddler throwing a tantrum over a toy isn’t likely to be the one casting judgment.
If you want to explore more about family choices, check out this piece on artificial insemination. It’s a valuable resource for navigating the complexities of starting a family. You can also find great information on in vitro fertilisation, which can be helpful for those considering different paths to parenthood.
In summary, let’s foster an environment where we support one another instead of passing judgment. Whether it’s beer in the cart or a pack of candy, we all have our ways of coping with the challenges of motherhood. So, the next time you see someone’s shopping cart, remember: everyone has their story, and it’s best to keep your focus on your own journey.