Motherhood. My approach to the most magnificent job in the entire world (I am biased) may be slightly different from the norm. When I first accepted the challenge of the position I was under qualified and not the most whole individual but I knew I had been entrusted with an enormous responsibility - in my arms were two pure and precious souls who didn't belong to me but were entrusted to me to love, honor, respect, guide and teach. A blank canvas for me to assist in the creation of what would eventually become masterpieces.
A mighty task to undertake, but I dove right in eager to tackle the job. I devoted myself full time to this position, with no vacation time, sick days, or paid leave. The salary was LOW if nonexistent and I hardly ever received a thank you or pat on the back to tell me that I was doing a good job. There were times when I felt greatly unappreciated.
I did not receive much support from certain family members and the culture around me was not very encouraging of my decision. I was reminded over and over again that at anytime I could abandon my position leaving the job of raising my children in the hands of another. I turned my back to those naysayers trying not to feel hurt and frustrated by their words and lack of respect for what I was attempting to achieve. I knew I would be at my best, devoting my entire being to one job instead of two. I chose Motherhood.
I chose to not follow the rules of society - the opinions and advice found in books and from those who have gone before - to let your infant cry, the age when your toddler should use the toilet, get rid of the pacifier and bottle, go to school, sleep in a bed, share their toys, etc etc. I tuned it all out to follow my own intuitive ways and instill the values that I felt were most important in life.
These two little ones are now approaching their 23rd and 18th years of life. They have endured a great deal in those years. They too have loved and lost and coped and struggled along side their mother. Today though I am more of a bystander then their leader. I get to watch as they now make decisions of their own; how they react to the good ones and how they deal with the not so great ones. I see how they treat others; the love and respect they show and how they honor others who they have chosen to share their life with. I'm watching as they face challenges and overcome on a path they choose to walk - one that is their own - not letting the culture and ways of the world influence and dictate their every stride.
These two human beings with their strengths and their imperfections will be okay. I no longer need to keep two hands on the wheel. Maybe now I can sit back and enjoy the ride and find my own way back into a culture which honors the job of motherhood less and less, and under values it's requirements and sacrifices. It's such a shame really when you stop to realize the importance of the job.
So all that said.... I salute you, Mothers, and I thank you for a job well done! I hope I will be in a position where I will be able welcome you back with open arms acknowledging your wisdom and vast experience with a decent salary reflecting ALL that you are worth! A little early, but Happy Mom's Day!