Navigating Parenthood
Updated: Aug. 21, 2015
Originally Published: May 25, 2014
A little confession: sometimes, the smallness of my daily life feels like it’s gnawing at me. Why aren’t I achieving more, seeing more, or engaging with more people? I often feel like I’m stuck in a tedious routine—bound by the seemingly endless responsibilities of raising my beloved, yet demanding, little ones. They take up so much of my time, attention, and energy that it often feels like there’s hardly anything left for me.
Oh, how I yearn for the outside world! I remember walking home from the hospital just days after my C-section, pushing myself to get out and into life. A week later, I was navigating the bustling streets, pushing a stroller for over a mile to reach the lively center of town. Back then, I embraced the chaos of the world outside as much as I needed the quiet of home.
But now, getting out the door with my three young children feels like a monumental task. The effort to dress them appropriately for the weather, hunt down six individual shoes that seem to have scattered across the house, pack snacks, and remind them to use the bathroom ahead of time can feel overwhelming. “Is it really worth it?” I often question. It used to be a resounding yes, but now… sometimes, it’s just easier to stay in.
I remember my days spent in bustling cities where life thrived around me. I used to commute to Times Square, return to my cozy, cramped apartment, and step into the lively streets at any hour. Now, I find myself grounded, chasing after kids, ensuring their safety on the same stretch of earth each day.
Sometimes, I look up at planes flying overhead and reminisce about my former life as a budding aviation attorney. I think back to spontaneous trips to New Hampshire for lunch with an old college flame who was a pilot.