When I first found out I was having a daughter, I was honestly worried. I worried that I wouldn’t live up to the standard I set for myself, that I’d somehow mess her up. I felt this enormous pressure to be perfect for her, to make sure I instilled in her all of the things I wish I had known or learned when I was younger, to be better, to make sure she’d be better than I am. Now that she’s here, I have let go of those ridiculous standards I set for myself. Instead I’m looking forward to getting to know her, to support her in whoever she wants to be. To be her mother and hopefully, someday, someone she can rely on like I rely on my own mother.
I haven’t asked my mom directly, but I can imagine it is special to watch your children become parents of their own and I know I will enjoy watching my own children become parents themselves someday. There is a certain understanding and experience of being a parent that you simply can’t understand unless you are one. Maybe it’s the unconditional love or maybe it’s more selfish than that, maybe it’s seeing a better version of yourself emerge into the world.
Either way, this Mother’s day, I am grateful for my own mother, for the sacrifices she (and dad) made on my behalf and their help in navigating me safely to adulthood. I am equally thankful for my two healthy, beautiful children and my husband. I am so excited to be a part of their childhood that lies ahead for all of us. Happy Mother’s Day.
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Moms really are the best. Have a wonderful day :)
Thanks Maura! :)