The honesty in these statements settled into my soul when I read this list. Being a mom is not all gushing love with fairies and unicorns prancing about in open meadows with sunshine and blossoms. It is hard work, and none of us mom’s got an instruction manuel on how to be the bestest and greatest at our job. We do the best we can in spite of the burdens we carry, the baggage of our own childhood, and trying relentlessly to remain loving and not bitter for giving up our own hopes, dreams, passions so our child can have theirs. It is a thankless job, but I have to say my joys outweigh the heartaches.
I would do it all over again, too, but only because I know what this journey has been with Jesus interceding every step of the way. I believe more than anything that my many prayers have been and are still heard. As a mom, I’ve witnessed miracles in horrible circumstances. I’ve watched healing that only God can do. I’ve given up hope in the dark of night yet regained my mom strength the next morning because God had mercy. The love of God sustains us mothers when everything and most everyone else in society belittles the role, points accusing fingers at mistakes, or shares unsolicited advice on how to do a better job.
A mother’s strength is different than any other kind of strength. It comes from deep within and spirals up out of our spirit and spreads across the universe like a cocoon of love and possibilities. We are the biggest cheerleaders of our child, enduring and forgiving whatever comes our way, championing support and guidance, pointing out truths, and standing in the gap. It is exhausting yet reflects purpose. Thank the Lord for showing us moms those glimmers of progress and for laughter. Jesus, take the wheel!
Today, thank a mom, grandma, and/or mom figure in your life. Pray for her strength in Jesus’ name. Thank God for the moms who have passed away and no longer grace us with their wisdom.
Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. Proverbs 31:25
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