It’s Mother’s Day, and my partner, Sarah, is caught in a whirlwind of guilt that just doesn’t make sense. Sure, it’s a day meant to celebrate all the hardworking moms out there, but that doesn’t stop her from dwelling on the negatives.
Let me take you back to our chaotic morning. We woke up entirely too early and scrambled to get ready for a birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese. The kids dashed through breakfast and dashed upstairs to get dressed. Meanwhile, I was struggling to wrap a gift when our daughter came down limping, claiming her foot hurt. After a quick call to the doctor, we decided on a plan: I would take our son to the party while Sarah took our daughter to the hospital for x-rays.
By the time we wrapped up at Chuck E. Cheese, Sarah had received the all-clear from the x-ray results (just a little Motrin did the trick), and we regrouped at a Park & Ride before heading to yet another birthday celebration in DC followed by a friends’ housewarming party. By the time we drove home around 9:30 PM, Sarah was understandably exhausted.
As we settled in, I tried to lighten the mood. “Hey, at least tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and you’ll get some gifts!” I said cheerfully.
But instead of excitement, she responded, “I don’t deserve presents. I’m hardly doing my part as a mom anyway.”
Sarah travels frequently for work—so often that flight attendants recognize her. Her travels aren’t a means of escaping her family; they’re necessary sacrifices in the balancing act of modern motherhood. Juggling career responsibilities with parenting duties is no easy feat, especially when I’m the stay-at-home dad, enjoying daily moments with our kids. Each time Sarah returns from a trip, she sees snapshots of our children thriving without her, which only adds to her guilt.
It’s baffling how a woman who gives so much of herself could feel like she’s falling short. She’s a dedicated mother with children who adore her, yet she believes she doesn’t deserve a single gift. I would give her a Mother’s Day celebration every day if I could. Sadly, all I can offer is a 10-minute Facetime call while she’s away.
We often base our self-worth on how we perceive others view us. In a world filled with unrealistic expectations for mothers, it’s easy for someone like Sarah to feel inadequate, even when she’s doing everything she can for her family. It’s frustrating to see her think she’s a “bad mom” simply because she doesn’t fit into a narrow definition of what motherhood should look like.
So, on this special day, let’s remind all mothers, especially those who feel the weight of guilt—whether you travel for work or stay home, whether you juggle chores or wish you could take a break—that you are doing an incredible job. You deserve recognition and appreciation every day. Your children are fortunate to have you as their mom, and I am grateful every day for the love and care you pour into our family. Happy Mother’s Day to a woman who truly deserves it!
And to all the other mothers out there, whether you’re feeling like you’re failing or juggling too many responsibilities, know that you are valued and loved. You’re not alone in this journey. Every mom deserves to be celebrated today and every day.
For more insights into the journey of motherhood, check out our other blog post here or explore helpful resources at Science Daily regarding pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re on a fertility journey, consider visiting Make a Mom for reliable at-home insemination kits.
Summary:
Mother’s Day can stir feelings of guilt in many moms, but it’s essential to recognize the hard work and sacrifices they make every day. Society’s unrealistic expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but this day serves as a reminder that every mother deserves appreciation and gratitude. Celebrate the journey of motherhood, acknowledge your worth, and know that you are doing an amazing job, no matter your circumstances.
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