We spend time in primary, secondary, and sometimes post-secondary school to gain the skills and knowledge for our professional life. We then spend a great portion of our life in that specific profession. So all the preparation in school helps us to get there. Isn’t it crazy though how mothers go through pregnancy for less than one year, give birth, and take their new baby home without a how-to manual? We are just expected to fulfill this new role with minimal guidance. It is pretty amazing though how successful we become in such a short period. Motherhood is one role where we are constantly evolving and learning. It is better than any professional job title. Sometimes we stay stagnant in our professional lives, but we continue to get mini promotions at home. I can attest to that as in one month one child helped build a solar-powered car for school, one child entered the gifted and talented program, and one child learned how to ride a bike without training wheels. That is better than any career advancement in my opinion. I am not sure how many careers allow for frequent promotion along with an overwhelming sense of pride.
It is pretty amazing how mothers can navigate their roles without following specific guidelines. As mothers, we are in charge of little lives that will one day grow up to navigate the world on their own. It is true when they say the oldest child grows with you. That first child is the one you are learning with. They help you figure out your new role, and have to experience your visible ups and downs. They are the one who first makes you a mother. The second child comes along and the thought crosses your mind that you might not love them as much as the first. Boy does that change really fast. Instantly your heart explodes with equal love for both. You feel more confident with the second because it’s no longer your first rodeo. However, there are still challenges along the way. You are now navigating motherhood with two tiny people at your side. My first and second were less than two years apart, so they were both in diapers and cribs for a bit. It felt like my second hit milestones faster than the first, but maybe that’s because she was constantly observing everything her brother was doing. When the third baby came around I felt like I knew what I was doing. I was more relaxed and focused on being grateful he was healthy. He came into the family and is the source of our laughter. Although I did not have a how-to manual with him, I felt that my other two children helped provide one.
My children have taught me so much and they continue to do so. I feel so happy and thankful that I have the opportunity each day to grow with them. As I mentioned earlier, it is better than any professional career. I wasn’t given any formal education or manual on how to be a Mom, but I have managed thus far.
To all the Moms out there, we are all doing amazing!
