Becoming a mother changed me, or perhaps, it actualized who I was meant to become. Motherhood is a tremendous blessing, and I am so grateful to be a mother of two boys. In addition to the blessing it is, it is full of challenges that test me.
As an introvert at heart, I can find it challenging to find time to unwind while caring for others. My son and I joke that if I get grumpy, I can “blow on hot cocoa” (an idea from a mindfulness book for children that we sometimes read during baby brother’s nap time). It reminds me to calm down and be in the moment. In fact, mindfulness has brought me to a place of peace recently.
I spent so many years being concerned about the future and the past, and I feel as though I missed out on the gift of the present moment that I looked over. Spending time with my children has caused me to go on an inward journey, sort of like a slow moving river cruise. Perhaps it’s the routines we share, where (as they say) the days are long and the years are short. I find myself having bursts of nostalgia, though I see the memories with older eyes. When I think of these moments, I realize how precious they were, and I say “thank you” to them (kind of in the KonMari style of letting go). It’s the idea of “sanctifying” and “disavowing” moments in life.
I am finding peace as a mother through realizing that every moment I have on this earth is a gift. Every day I spend with my children is a blessing. I want to teach my boys kindness, compassion, and love. I can only be the mother I want to be if I look at my life through the perspective of gratitude.
Cheers, Anne
Vegan Mama Bear 