Parenting
The Mother’s Commitment by Keesha Beckford
Updated: Aug. 21, 2015 | Originally Published: Jan. 16, 2012
I vow to fill our days with joy, connection, play, fresh experiences, learning, wholesome meals and snacks, and well-timed rest for everyone involved.
I’ll arrange playdates with other mothers and their children, as these moments keep our sanity intact. However, if a day unfolds with tears, sibling squabbles, monotony, unhealthy snacks, and disrupted naps, I’ll accept it and strive for a brighter tomorrow.
I will refrain from devouring an entire bag of M&Ms or chips to soothe my stress, knowing that it will only contribute to my waistline. Instead, I’ll seek solace through texts with friends and get the kids outdoors as soon as possible. And if rain keeps us inside, I won’t see it as a personal affront; I’ll create an alternative plan, even if that plan involves a simple trip to Target.
I’ll commit to being budget-conscious in the aisles of Target and elsewhere, resisting the allure of an overpriced box of organic cookies at Whole Foods. I’ll take advantage of the Internet, magazines, and community recommendations for affordable activities. I will harness the power of Groupon in my mission to enjoy life without breaking the bank.
I’ll steer clear of the “Land of No,” opting instead for a landscape of positive requests. I will strive to empathize rather than chastise, to communicate rather than yell, to supervise instead of patronize, and to breathe rather than seethe. Thank you, Marcus Lee.
I’ll intentionally carve out time for exercise so I can avoid crankiness and the need for a new wardrobe due to an expanding belly. I’ll also prioritize self-care, ensuring I have regular intervals for myself. If that personal time feels too far away and I sense desperation creeping in, I’ll devise a plan, arrange childcare, and step out in either workout gear or something a little nicer.
In moments of chaos, I will remain composed and steadfast. I won’t get pulled into the whirlwind created by my child. Instead, I’ll give them space or hold them close as the situation requires. I’ll protect them from harm by strategically placing a blanket or towel nearby as they thrash about like a wild animal.
Every Sunday, I will organize a meal plan for the week ahead to avoid the stress of dinner decisions at 5:00 p.m. I’ll ensure I get as much sleep as possible. When it’s time for a nap, I will take that time to rest, not get distracted by cleaning, writing, or scrolling through social media, only to have my unpredictable napper wake up too soon and rob me of my precious downtime. If necessary, I’ll set an alarm to allow myself a few rejuvenating zzz’s before tackling dinner prep.
I’ll remind myself that potty training is a journey and that, while it may take some time, my children won’t be voting in diapers. I’ll harness the power of the television in moderation, knowing that PBS is a good source of educational content.
I’ll also make it a priority to nurture my relationship with my partner, so we can enjoy being husband and wife, not just mom and dad. I’ll stay informed about the latest parenting insights and trends, aiming to be more like June Cleaver rather than Roseanne. Yet, I won’t berate myself for what I didn’t accomplish or couldn’t do under the circumstances.
I will remember that despite the chaos, the moments of yelling, and the reality of my kids watching too much Caillou, I am a good mother. And they are just as fortunate to have me as I am to have them.
This article was originally published on Jan. 16, 2012.
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In summary, motherhood is a balancing act filled with challenges and joys. It’s about striving for connection, laughter, and learning while also accepting the imperfect moments along the way.
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