Nothing has been more humbling to me than becoming a mama. I don’t know how many times I say, “I don’t really know what I’m doing, I’m just trying my best.” Before I became a mom, I rarely admitted that I didn’t know what I was doing. We’re in this new territory, these unchartered waters, and while there are those who have gone before us, being a mom is a completely new experience. It’s humbling.
It’s easy to look at all that’s going on around us—and all that’s going on within us—and resign ourselves to believing we’re just doing a poor job, that we’re no good at what we do. But, that’s not the case. We’re not insignificant or inferior; we just have a modesty we might not have had before. We realize that we can’t do it all—all the time; and we realize we sometimes don’t even know what to do.
Since I’ve become a mom, I’ve eaten double servings of humble pie. But, I wouldn’t have it any other way, because I’m changing and maturing; and I like the fact that I’m bidding farewell to some of the arrogance of my youth. I’ve accidentally constipated my child by feeding her too much banana, too many days in a row. I’ve gotten poop on my hands, breast milk all over the place, and spit-up everywhere. I’ve forgotten to change a diaper for hours, and I’ve clipped skin while trying to clip nails. But, I’ve dried tears, I’ve calmed screams, and I’ve nourished a hungry baby.
There’s so much I’ve done wrong, and there’s so much I’m doing right. There’s also so much I’m trying to do right. I’m sure you’re right here with me, mama; or that you’ll be right here with me soon, mama. We’re eating our servings of humble pie, but we’re becoming better versions of ourselves. Versions that accept fault, apologize, proudly declare that we’re doing our best and are not perfect, and unconditionally love.
By Holly M.
BabyChatter Contributor
