As I sat down to dinner with some new acquaintances, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of kinship as we shared stories about parenting. My partner, David, and I had been eager to connect with these friends for a while, but life with young children had made scheduling a challenge. Finally, we managed to hire sitters and enjoy an evening away from the chaos of parenthood. The food was delightful, and the conversation flowed easily as we laughed about the little quirks of raising kids and the amusing chaos that comes with it.
As the evening progressed, our conversation drifted to hobbies and passions. David casually mentioned that I was a physician and had once participated in a medical conference on advancing pediatric care. “Really?” our friends exclaimed, genuinely surprised. “I had no idea you had such an interesting background!”
For a moment, I was taken aback. Anyone who knows me understands that my dedication to medicine has shaped my identity. Yet, in the whirlwind of motherhood, I realized I had diminished aspects of myself that were once vibrant and vital.
Over the past couple of years as a stay-at-home mom, I’ve poured my heart into creating a nurturing environment for my daughter, Lily. Every day was meticulously planned around her needs and interests—playdates, educational activities, and outdoor adventures filled our schedule. I was determined to craft a perfect world for her, believing that my role was solely to facilitate her happiness. But in my quest to create, I forgot that her world doesn’t need to be constructed; it simply needs exploration.
Reflecting on my identity, I realized that prior to motherhood, I was a caring physician, a passionate advocate for children’s health, a lover of literature, and a friend. Yet when I introduced myself recently at a community event, I found myself saying, “Hi, I’m Dr. Sarah, and this is my husband David. We have a wonderful daughter, Lily, and that’s about it.”
My focus had been so intense on being a good mother that I lost sight of who I was beyond that role. I once relished in the beauty of life’s offerings and the joy of discovery. Yesterday, while rummaging through a box, I stumbled upon my old medical textbooks. As I flipped through the pages, nostalgia washed over me. The knowledge, the passion I once had seemed to come alive again. After a brief moment, I felt invigorated, reminding myself that my journey as a physician is a significant part of my story.
One day, I envision a conversation with Lily that goes something like this: “So, Lily, tell me about your mom.” I hope she will remember feeling loved and secure, having a childhood filled with joy, but I also hope she recalls my love for medicine and the way I embraced life outside of motherhood.
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In conclusion, it’s essential to remember that while motherhood is a beautiful journey, it’s equally important to nurture your own passions and identity.