Everything is not a Thing

 A male friend of mine and brother in Christ, who is to be married in a few days was talking to me about my looooong journey to marriage and motherhood (we actually can't make the long drive to the wedding because of the little guy.)  As with all questions of the unknown he asked me candidly what it was like being a mom - no holds barred.  Of course I admitted there are challenges, but my friend was taken aback with how I gushed about our son's laughter and how I would do anything to see him smile (really you should see some of the dances and side shows he has been privy to around here.) My friend simply said, I wish you would write about it and talk about it more.  It seems like all I hear about motherhood is the sacrifice and the burden, and I know sadly enough that he is right.

For me, I desperately wanted to be a mother so badly and for so long that it was the fulfillment of a desire deep within me, but I know many women are no longer encouraged to fan the flame of that desire.  Admittedly, there was a time when if someone had answered the question of what they wanted to be by saying a mother, I would have said, okay but what do you want to BE?  There is a sense that bearing, nurturing, educating, and raising a human person destined for eternity just isn't enough (LOL-literally but more with disdain) and that because you don't work, well...you don't work!  If motherhood isn't enough for us, then what conclusions does that allow our children to draw about themselves?  If this isn't enough for society, then how will generations spring up with strong roots? If we don't give time and sow seeds of love then what harvest have we to reap?  This brings me back to Confucius' quote that "the strength of the nation derives from the integrity of the home."  So work (in or out and in and out of the home) but love your vocation of motherhood because to your little one it is a job with endless benefits, excellent retirement, and unquestionable job security!  Happy Mother's Day.