“There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.”
– Jill Churchill
I am a proud mother of three beautiful young ladies. Having all girls, most people think our lives revolve around princesses, pink and glittery objects, barbies, etc. Sure, that’s true! One minute they can be the girliest of girls as they enjoy putting on pretend make-up, play dress-up, and put on mami’s heels. But don’t be fooled, the next minute they can put all that aside, play in the dirt, wrestle each other, and/or have a burping contest (No Kidding!). There’s no in between with these girls, they sure know how to keep life interesting.
Being a mother has not been an easy task. I know I’m not the only one or the first one to admit that. As I reflect on motherhood, the many challenges and mom fails, I also think of the many lessons learned throughout this journey. I’m far from being a perfect mother, I may not always get it right and that’s okay. One thing is certain though, my love for my daughters will always exist and my hope is that they ALWAYS know that, no matter what.
Motherhood Journey
Motherhood is beautiful. It has brought joy, excitement, and true love into my life. I’m reminded of this beauty as I watch my daughters every day; their innocence, their curiosity, their free-spirit (even though it drives me crazy at times). Who they are, how they love, how they carry themselves in this crazy world. I’m in awe as they remain true to who they are. They are still at an age where they are connected to their inner selves, their wants, their needs and not what the world expects. How I pray that doesn’t change!
Motherhood is also hard, no denying that. There are many times (more often than I’d like to admit) that I doubt my ability to be a good mama to my girls. I yell, I lose my patience, I’m a mess and I cry. I’ll be honest, it’s not a pretty sight at all. It’s all part of the journey; learn, fail, learn, and keep going. Nothing in life was ever meant to be perfect and motherhood is no exception.
As a mother, there have been countless times that I have chased perfection. I have tried so hard to do things the “right way” so I don’t mess up my girls. Making sure I follow everyone’s “how to” rather than trusting myself. It was always easier to look outward for the answers, for the perfect way to parent, for someone to come and save me from failing. As I get older (and hopefully wiser), I am learning to stop chasing something so unrealistic, so absurd. My daughters will not remember this “perfect” mom who never failed, who always did things the right way. No!! What they’ll always hold onto will be the moments I hugged them, I listened, I played and made silly faces. They’ll remember the love.
My Girls
Jaycee, Jenesys, and Jaelynn: You are my biggest and most valuable treasure. You are my light, my life, my why for everything I do.
As you grow older, always remember that no matter how old you are, I will always be here for you. I will always hold your hand, hold you in my arms, and remind you how much I love you, how much I’ll fight for you, how I would give my life for you. I’ll guide and protect you when necessary.
You are my everything, I love YOU!
Don’t You Ever Forget!
Here’s my message to you my daughters:
I hope you always see the beauty around you, but most importantly, the beauty within you. It’s there, I promise!
Be kind to ALL, especially to yourselves.
Remember who you are and stay true to that magnificent being.
Always know you are loved, you are enough, you are strong, you are beautiful just as you are.
Believe in yourselves! You are capable of so so much!
ALWAYS choose love; love for yourself, for others, for our world because that’s what our world needs.
Be a friend and a helping hand when you can.
Go out and be who you were created to be.
Be YOU, be happy!
I will ALWAYS be your #1 fan.
With much love, your mami!
P.S. Don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers! Life is not a race, enjoy every moment!
Read another writers letter to her 18 year old daughter on her birthday HERE on The We Spot blog.
