Wednesday, January 22, 2014

I Have Never Felt More Successful

There are days, times, and instances where I have felt like a successful mother,
but for all of those times there are others when I feel like everything is going wrong,
my children aren't listening, and I have no idea what I'm doing 
on this crazy journey called parenthood.
The successful times are full of joy and laughter.
The not so successful times are full of frustration for both the babies and me,
but both types of situations present a lesson to be learned.
Sometimes the lesson is easily identified, while other times it takes some thought and reflection.

One of my most recent successful moments 
proved to be the type where the lesson was crystal clear from the moment it happened.  
The babies and I were in the car.  
Emma was talking a mile a minute as usual.
Jude was throwing in his two cents every now and then with a "Momma" or a "bababa."
Then it got quiet for a few minutes.
Then in the sweetest, most genuine voice I have ever heard
Emma said, "Momma, you love me."

As soon as I heard those most precious words I knew that although
we may have less than perfect moments together, I am doing something right
in terms of raising these beautiful babies.  My most important job as their mother
is to love them unconditionally and to make sure they know that I do.
Those four simple words proved to me that the strength of my love for our babies
shines through even during the hard times.  The cuddles, laughs, hugs, and kisses
are what stands out to them and that makes me happy.

My goal as their mother is to make sure that the
affection, praise, and encouragement always outweighs the scolding.
I know this might be easier said than done, especially as they get older and
develop thoughts and opinions of their own, but I believe our relationship will
be stronger if I always remember that little squeaky voice coming from the back seat
and strive to reaffirm that childhood belief even during the most trying times.
Although they may not agree, but it will be during those times when they need
my cuddles, laughs, hugs, and kisses the most.