Let’s kick things off with childbirth, which is undeniably one of the most remarkable feats I’ve ever witnessed. My partner, Sarah, has given birth three times, all via C-section. While the debate around the frequency of C-sections is ongoing, that’s not the point I want to make. What I want to emphasize is that a surgeon made an incision in Sarah, brought a baby into the world, and stitched her back up—not once, but three times.
RELATED: 101 Strength Quotes That’ll Make You Feel Like You Can Conquer Anything
Each time, she approached it like a true warrior, up and moving the very next day. Her steps were cautious, but she was determined to get out of the hospital and care for our newborn. The first time I saw Sarah go through a cesarean, I nearly fainted. After that, I couldn’t bring myself to watch again; it was too intense for me to handle. I can’t even fathom the strength it took for her to endure it.
Let’s also remember that giving birth is just the climax of nine months filled with fluctuating hormones, emotional upheaval, and morning sickness—all to welcome a child into the world. When I consider this, I struggle to grasp why women have historically been viewed as the weaker sex.
After all, the process of bringing a child into the world—complete with tearing, blood, and significant risks, especially before modern pain relief—should have earned mothers a newfound respect from everyone. Then there’s the challenge of getting a baby to latch on, which seems like a skill they should naturally possess but often don’t. Suddenly, a woman becomes a self-sufficient nutritional station, providing sustenance every few hours.
Watching Sarah breastfeed has been nothing short of inspiring. Seeing our child depend on her so completely is something I’ve never experienced and likely never will, as I’m not designed to bring life into the world and nourish it.
To complicate matters further, breastfeeding in public can evoke judgment as harsh as public urination in America. I remember the first time Sarah received a disapproving glare for nursing our daughter discreetly under a blanket at a restaurant. Instead of feeling ashamed, she kept going, doing what she needed to do for our child, embodying sheer resilience.
Throughout this journey, I watched Sarah’s body change. She developed a long, pink scar above her navel, larger than any scar I have. Even if I had a scar to match hers, it would never hold the same significance, as it would only signify my survival, not the miracle of life. Her hips shifted, stretch marks appeared, and her breasts changed shape. Observing these transformations only deepened my admiration for her and the sacrifices she made to bring our children into the world.
Once the physical challenges subsided, Sarah faced the societal pressure to return to her pre-baby body, as if the incredible journey of childbirth was something to be ashamed of. This is something I, as a father, have never had to confront, but I witnessed my partner navigate it with strength. Watching her overcome the harsh judgments regarding her appearance and embrace her body for what it represented revealed just how tough she really is.
Then, there are the so-called “sanctimommies”—those who feel the need to criticize other mothers based on their parenting choices, as if there’s a perfect way to raise a child. The constant worry that a mother might be failing her child for not breastfeeding long enough or choosing non-organic foods adds yet another layer of stress.
Shall I keep going? I could, but I believe you get the picture. Motherhood is a series of physical and social hurdles, and what I’ve mentioned here barely scratches the surface. For those who are reading this and thinking they may not want children, this message isn’t directed at you.
I’m speaking to the mothers who have persevered, who’ve embraced the wonder of their children and the joy they bring. I want you to know that I see your strength, and it doesn’t matter what others say—you are, without a doubt, stronger than I am. Your incredible resilience is noticed, and other men see it too. Keep pushing forward. Keep being fierce. Keep being tough as nails.
For more insights about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource here. If you’re interested in personalizing your journey, you can learn more about options at Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kit. And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out through this link.
Summary
This article celebrates the incredible strength of mothers, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges they face during childbirth and motherhood. It applauds their resilience in overcoming societal pressures and judgments while nurturing their children. The author expresses admiration for mothers’ unwavering determination and encourages them to embrace their strength.