Faced with the overwhelming responsibility of mothering the next generation; mothers often feel like we are not doing enough, or not doing it just right.
I am certainly guilty of this myself, and I have never met another mom who didn’t feel the same.
Although it’s a positive sign that we’re trying to do our best, we need to learn to let it go so that we can be our best. A guilty conscience is doing no one any good, if anything it is just causing frustration. Either a change needs to be made or an acceptance needs to take place.
Truthful Guilt:
In this type of guilt there really is something that could be better. What is nagging over your head that you know needs to be changed? You have put it off for whatever reason. Let’s not wait any longer. Our children are growing up everyday, let’s take steps today to make our tomorrow the best it can be.
Guilt from Unrealistic expectations:
I feel like my picture should be beside these words with a stamp on my forehead saying “guilty”. Actually, I do need a picture for this post….
We compare ourselves to our neighbor who has a beautiful yard, our best friend whose children can recite the entire bible (minor exaggeration), the one whose home is always immaculate, and the one who is always doing craft projects with her kids.
My favorite saying around here is, “We compare ourselves to what others are on the outside to what we know to be true of ourselves on the inside”
Yes Sally (names changed to protect the innocent) may be crafty, but I bet she doesn’t have the talent you do! Be thankful for Sally’s talent and note that she probably doesn’t have yours!
We all have at least one talent, but not one of us have all the talent.
Most importantly comparing ourselves to others is a lose, lose battle. The only perfect one worthy of comparing ourselves to is Jesus. He was not a mom, but He was an amazing and effective teacher. He corrected and showed grace at all the right times. He was selfless and He loved….like REALLY LOVED, even when we didn’t deserve it. What a model!!
When you feel the unwelcome feeling of guilt creeping in again:
- Determine if it is true or unrealistic guilt
- If it is true: Do something. Make the changes right then, or take steps to make the situation better.
- If it is untrue. Thank God for making you the mother that you are. Focus on what you do well. And enjoy doing what you do best with your kids.
As iron sharpens iron,
so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17
What do you think? Do you carry mom guilt? I love your comments!
