We love this quote about the reality of motherhood being difficult but forgiving yourself when you slip up.
“I love my children more than anything in the world. They are the most important part of my life and when I’m with them I am happiest—and yet, I find parenting hard. I do my very best to carve out as much time to be present and active with them as possible, but I’m not entirely sure that my nerves are built for the noise, the intensity, the constant requirement to be selfless, and to remain calm. It takes everything in me not to nag them to quieten down and stop everything childish, which would obviously be devastating for their childhoods! I see other mothers who seem to find it less of a struggle. Perhaps they have grown up in bigger families or have tougher nerve endings. I have worked extremely hard to practice patience and to pause when necessary before reacting, but, on the other hand, I also have to remember to forgive myself. For instance, even when I do the ‘right thing’ and get down on the floor to play Legos, my kids can sense that it’s not the easiest thing for me. I will do it and I will stay there and engage, but somehow it’s a struggle, even if I’m pretending it’s not, and consequently they can tell. But it has taken me years and years not to feel guilty, to accept that I have limitations in that area and that I really am doing the best that I can. When I accept and forgive my own weaknesses, then I can be lighter in the moment, because I’m not trying too hard to be perfect and in the end, my kids benefit, too.” - Gillian Anderson
Do you relate? We do.
Have a lovely Friday!
Top image by Stephanie Sunderland.