By: Jessica Waverly
Updated: February 19, 2021
Originally Published: August 21, 2011
“If I could choose my mom, it would be you,” my 9-year-old daughter exclaimed one day, beaming at me. “That’s so kind,” I replied, a hint of skepticism in my voice. “Why do you say that?”
“Because you’re the best mom in the world,” she declared, then skipped out of the room.
Really? I have my doubts. There are days when I feel like I’m failing miserably at this whole mothering thing. I’m not referring to the extreme cases of neglect or harm; that’s an entirely different issue. No, I’m talking about those everyday moments when I struggle to meet the lofty standard of being “practically perfect in every way,” as Mary Poppins would say.
I find myself snapping at the kids for taking too long to finish breakfast, anxious that they’ll be late for school. I threaten to take away my toddler’s favorite toy if she doesn’t stop her lion impressions at the dinner table. I roll my eyes when my sixth grader dramatically crashes to the floor over a stubbed toe. And I can’t help but lose my patience when my middle child goes on and on about her day, seemingly forever. There are times I even daydream about life without kids.
So, please, don’t choose me if you’re seeking the world’s best mom. But then again, do pick me.
You should choose me because I’m fearless—unafraid of spiders, towering mountains, or scraped knees. I’m not intimidated by failure; what scares me is not trying at all, especially when you genuinely want to but for some reason hold back. Trying requires courage, confidence, and faith. I can teach you how to be brave, but it’s equally important to understand that asking for help is perfectly okay. Recognizing your limits and reaching your goals alongside others is essential.
You should choose me because I can cartwheel, skateboard, roller skate, and ice skate. I genuinely enjoy going to baseball games—not just for the snacks. I love watching you play soccer, especially when that determined look crosses your face as you take an open shot on goal, even if the ball doesn’t find the net.
I’m the mom who will always hold your hand during takeoff and landing. Transitioning from one place to another—good or bad—can be daunting. A steady hand makes all the difference.
I promise to always be honest with you. Not the shallow truths that hurt without offering guidance, but the kind that you need to hear, even if it’s difficult. Truth can be a double-edged sword; some crave it constantly while others avoid it. Finding balance in how we give and receive truth is crucial.
You should choose me because I know how you like to snuggle up against me when it’s bedtime. I’ve mastered the art of kissing you goodnight without getting your headgear caught in my lips. And when I leave your room, I’ll always respond to your “night-night-see-you-in-the-morning-love-you” with the same heartfelt words.
I prepare your lunches fresh each morning instead of the night before. It’s one of the ways I express my love for you.
You should choose me because I believe in magic. From the Tooth Fairy to the small miracles like my peonies that bloom year after year, and the wondrous science of the universe, there’s so much that defies explanation. The fact that we exist in this world is nothing short of miraculous.
We are two peas in a pod—both perfectionists who hate making mistakes. We carry the weight of others’ sadness as if it were our own, wondering if we’ve done something wrong when we haven’t. We’re brimming with enthusiasm and brilliant ideas that can’t be contained; they burst forth and fill the room, like playful kittens seeking affection.
So, yes, choose me. There’s no one who understands you better or loves you more. In my eyes, I am the best mom in the world, as long as I get to be your mom.
For more insights, check out our post on intra-cervical insemination. If you’re considering home insemination options, a reliable source for at-home kits is Make a Mom. And if you’re looking for comprehensive resources about pregnancy and home insemination, take a look at Hopkins Medicine.
In summary, being a mom comes with its challenges, but the love, lessons, and bonds we create make it all worthwhile.
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