By: Emily Carter
Updated: Jan. 14, 2016
Originally Published: Dec. 12, 2012
“So, is motherhood really worth it?” my colleague, Sarah, asks with an air of skepticism while we sit across from each other at a round cafeteria table. We’re perched on tall bar stools—hers a natural fit, mine a stark reminder of my brief moments of uninterrupted meals and quiet time.
Having joined the team only two months ago, I’m still a bit of a mystery to her. My life, at this point, resembles a patchwork quilt made up of early morning wake-ups, occasionally stained blazers, and rather mundane weekends. Behind these patches lies the essence of who I am at work: my personality, work style, and experiences.
“But is it worth it?” she presses.
I grapple for the right words to convey my feelings. Unfortunately, a generic, pre-packaged response escapes my lips before I can catch it. I can sense her doubt—who could blame her? Deep down, I’ve never found the courage to revisit this discussion, but what I genuinely want to express is a resounding YES, it’s absolutely worth it. Not because it’s the most fulfilling experience, nor because I smile at the memories of my children’s antics while typing away at my desk, but because of the profound understanding I’ve gained about my kids that I would never have known otherwise.
This might sound illogical, but bear with me. The true value of motherhood lies in the little insights I’ve gathered about my children. Those unique quirks that shape their identities and turn me into their foremost expert—knowledge I would have missed entirely without them. This may seem like nonsensical reasoning, yet I am convinced that uncovering these aspects of my children is the greatest reward of motherhood.
It brings me immense joy to discover that I have a five-year-old son who adamantly refuses to wear socks to bed. He delights in a nightly ritual where he sneakily tucks his bare feet into the blankets, waiting for my pretend shock as he bursts into laughter. I understand his requests, like “Mama, please give me a dream,” or his playful references to someone as his “baddest chap.”
Furthermore, had we not welcomed our second child—who would’ve thought our blond son would have a dark-haired, curly-haired sibling?—I wouldn’t have known that my younger son prefers to fall asleep on a blanket laid out on the floor, carefully arranging his stuffed animals in one corner before covering them with his own blanket. I wouldn’t have realized that he would invite me to “fweep” beside him, nor would I have learned that he would never form the same attachment to a stuffed animal as his brother did with his blue bear. I had no inkling that he would teach me about the fiery aspects of personality, perfectly illustrated by his intense expressions as he prepares to charge at me for an enthusiastic embrace or a game of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.”
And yes, I even created that game.
I would never experience the bittersweet sense of loss that many parents describe—a profound part of the journey as I witness my children progress through various stages of childhood.
Absolutely, it’s worth it. Motherhood transforms you into an explorer, discovering uncharted emotional and physical landscapes with your stroller and open heart. You’ll be astonished by the revelations that unfold, realizing that you are the mold, not just the cookie, the vessel, and not merely its contents.
Look at him. You could never have imagined that your younger child would take such care in lining up toy cars meticulously, becoming visibly upset when one is disturbed. You’d be surprised by the pride he beams as he announces, “Look, I did!” placing emphasis on “I.” You wouldn’t have guessed that such simple actions could fill you with an overwhelming mix of wonder, curiosity, and an inexplicable sense of pride.
You’ll discover that your heart will be tugged in unexpected ways daily, and this emotional investment is what makes it all worthwhile. You’ll care deeply about things you never thought possible.
For more insights into the journey of motherhood, check out this helpful resource on pregnancy or explore this informative post on home insemination. If you’re considering starting a family, Make a Mom offers a comprehensive guide to at-home insemination kits.
Summary:
Motherhood is an intricate journey filled with unique experiences that shape your understanding of your children. The small, daily discoveries about their personalities and quirks reveal the profound rewards of parenting, making the challenges worth every moment.