Motherhood

My little escapades into the past, via photos and thoughts on Mother's Day, have given me reason to think a bit more about the role of being a Mom. It's noteworthy to think on how we get an education and prepare for a career, making sure we are suited for the job and even ready to excel at it, when the career of motherhood is one that most of us just kind of fall into. One we learn as we go along, only coming to realize the significance of lives influenced, long after that first pregnancy test.

Had I known the demands and the way motherhood would be part of my very breath for the rest of my life, would I have signed up? New moms will quickly tell of the intense labor, loss of sleep, trips to the doctor and the loss of personal freedom. Every stage has new challenges as innocent little babes turn into little people with their own minds and ambitions, culminating at the point where  Mom comes to realize that she has given her all and off they go, taking a piece of her heart with them. And I marvel how, in looking at this view, does motherhood continue!

It is reasonable to think that this intense love born out of our own flesh or will, is what yearns for these challenges; challenges with results that can far outweigh the blessings of any temporary career. So, it is good I had no idea how motherhood would end up becoming a part of who I am, because it would have made me think more than twice before I jumped in. It's a mystery, the love that was born when that tiny, helpless baby was first cradled against my body and I knew my life would never be the same. It's when my life became about how to meet another's need and how to make her happy.

A parchment, clean and white, was laid out, on which I attempted my first strokes of a painting. Not every stroke made sense or looked beautiful, but with the Master's touch, corrective strokes blended into a scene that kept me wanting and yearning for more to see. This new painting of my child's life  mattered more than my own, yet somehow, in the process, it was mine that changed.

A new perspective came to life, sunlight reflecting the mystery of the rainbow against the clouds. In good times, joys were multiplied. In sorrow, I was comforted. In laughter, my bones were strengthened. In lonely times, I was remembered. In failure, I was forgiven. In another's success, I was honored . In shedding tears, I was renewed and in giving I received.

I have received more than I've given. Motherhood is a gift I cherish.