As a medical professional, I often find myself observing life through various lenses. Just as a photographer frequently changes their camera lenses to capture different aspects of a scene, I adjust my perspectives to understand the complexities of health and family. Some lenses provide clarity, while others zoom in on the intricate details of human emotion. I have my preferred viewpoints for everyday situations, and others that may distort reality in the pursuit of understanding.
This constant shift in perspective mirrors the daily experiences of parents. We wear different lenses depending on the situation—lenses of joy, skepticism, or even those that warp our view of reality itself.
Recently, a dear colleague of mine expressed her frustrations with her three children, who, like many young ones, seem to resist sleep. She shared a candid moment of her youngest, baby Leo, peacefully dozing on her lap while she rubbed his back, accompanied by a humorous caption: “Mom fail – 33,425,000.” Yet, to me, she is far from a failure. Over the years, I’ve witnessed her unwavering dedication to motherhood, including numerous attempts at sleep training and various strategies, from guided methods to holistic approaches.
The feeling of inadequacy can be overwhelming, especially when exhaustion acts as a distorting lens. When sleep-deprived, it’s easy to perceive ourselves through a harsh spotlight that highlights every misstep, blinding us to our successes. In this state, the nuances of parenting can fade away, leaving only stark contrasts that emphasize perceived failures.
Weight, diet, finances, relationships, and the complexities of parenthood all serve as lenses that shape our perceptions. However, not all lenses enable us to appreciate the beauty around us; some focus too intently on flaws and shortcomings.
If you’re feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, I hope you have a supportive community to lean on, one that can help you find moments of rest and healing. And if you’re celebrating joy, may those around you share in that happiness rather than cloud it with their own perspectives.
But if you find yourself lacking that support, it’s essential to remember that your current viewpoint may be skewed. Acknowledging this can help you see the bigger picture. To my wonderful friend, you are a remarkable mother. Your children cherish you, your partner admires you, and I see you through a lens of love and appreciation. You are not a failure.
For more insights on navigating parenthood and the journey of home insemination, consider exploring resources like Progyny and Make a Mom for guidance. Additionally, check out our article on intracervical insemination for more valuable information.
In summary, the way we perceive our parenting journey can shift dramatically based on our emotional and physical state. It’s crucial to recognize when our lenses may be clouded and seek support to regain a clearer outlook.