Dear Future President,
Tomorrow, I will face a heart-wrenching decision as I prepare to leave my newborn once again. It’s a pain I’ve endured three times before, and I had hoped this time would be different. Despite being told to “toughen up” and reminded to be grateful for my job as a teacher, the reality remains that I must step away from my baby for the sake of my family.
Yes, I am grateful to have a job, and yes, my schedule may seem ideal for a working mother. But tomorrow, I will once again find myself racing around the house, trying to squeeze in every moment with my children before heading to work. This struggle is shared by countless mothers who, like me, are simply doing what they must to support their families while grappling with the ache of separation.
Although I wear many hats as a “mompreneur”—managing a photography business, a fitness venture, and a writing career alongside my teaching job—this does not elevate me above other mothers. It merely reflects my commitment to ensuring my family’s well-being. We are a typical middle-class family, working hard to provide for our four children, yet we often find ourselves stretched thin after paying the mortgage, school loans, and other bills.
If you were to ask my children what they desire most, the answer would be simple: they want their mom. They crave my presence, my hugs, and my love.
Tomorrow, I will wipe away tears and peel tiny hands off my legs as I prepare to leave. I won’t be able to comfort my newborn when she cries, and I’ll miss the intimate moments of nursing her—a bonding experience that is irreplaceable. While I strive to maintain a brave face for my students, the emotional turmoil of leaving my baby behind will weigh heavily on my heart.
Future President, why is the United States one of the few developed nations without mandated paid maternity leave? As I prepare to leave my four-week-old daughter, I feel a deep injustice in knowing that I won’t get the critical bonding time that so many mothers need. The challenges are compounded by the realities of pumping milk throughout the day, often in cramped spaces, all while trying to be the best teacher I can be.
This baby, my fourth, deserves more time with her mother—time to bond, to nurture, and to grow together. As I step into the role of a working mother, I implore you to recognize the importance of this precious period. All mothers deserve to be supported in this critical time of their lives.
Tomorrow, I will join countless other mothers who have to walk away from their newborns, putting on a brave face while battling the internal struggle of separation. But wouldn’t it be a relief if we didn’t have to be the warriors in this battle for balance?
For more insights on the challenges of parenting and the importance of support, you can read our related post here. If you’re looking for resources related to at-home insemination, check out the At Home Insemination Kits available from reputable online retailers. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this resource.
In summary, the journey of a working mother is fraught with challenges, and our fight for better maternity support is one that deserves attention and action.
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