Supermom

When you hear that word, what do you think? 

A woman in a cape effortlessly toting multiple kids on her hip while picking up the floor's only evidence of mess with her talented toes? Is she vacuuming and homeschooling her kids all at the same time? 

Yeah? 

Well, I have a pin here and it's about to pop your Supermom idea balloon. 

On more than one occasion, I have been accused of complimented with such a title. I smile and shake my head at the word, knowing that the deliverer meant it as a praise. But in my heart, I can't accept it. 

(Now, I am really hard on myself by nature. I find fault in myself easily. 

Not a great quality, but this isn't one of those times.)

I am a real mom. Just me. 

Sparkles don't grace my path, wings don't ease me through my day. I struggle with motivation! I sit down instead of jumping right on the dishes in the sink. :-o Balloon.......popped!

My house is sanitary, not always tidy. My kids are well-taken care of, not always well-behaved. My meals are nutritious, not always showy. I enjoy my hobbies, I am not a creative genius. I love the idea of homeschooling, but I know my limitations. 

If you've ever expressed to a mom how impressive you think she is, on one level, it is really appreciated! You mean it as a boost and a compliment. But on the other hand, she knows her shortcomings and, in my opinion, she needs to be free to own those shortcomings instead of feeling like she has to "put on airs". In essence, you're flattering an insecurity, which doesn't do much for a healthy view of one's self. A compliment of "You are such a loving mom" or "I can tell you really enjoy crafting" (or whatever it is) goes a long way to encourage a mom's heart. At least it does mine :)

We need to be met where we are, not held to a standard that we really can't maintain without causing insanity! I think we ALL have "super powers"! All good moms love their children, we all put good food on the table and keep our families in a healthy environment. We ALL deserve kudos!

The number of kids you have and the choices you make for your family are awesome! Do all things with humbleness and a spirit of servant-hood, because the reward does not hold merit in the eyes or words of others, but in the Heavenly Father's eyes. 

I so appreciate the kindness of those who have wished to encourage me! This personal realization has been really liberating for me. I hope that if you have ever felt as I have, that you can breath a little easier and be confident that you ARE a good mom and can operate within a normal capacity. 

Hang up that tired cape and enjoy your family!