TO ALL THE MAMAS

dear Mama,

I know the days are long, and often the nights are not much different, but your work matters. It’s so easy to think that your days are meaningless or insignificant but that is a lie from the enemy. Your work is of the utmost importance. You are raising the next generation. The work you do now will impact generations to come. You are raising women who will change the world, and the men who will lead with grace, strength, and humility. 

It may not seem significant, but the diaper changes or the trips to the potty matter. Your consistency with what seems like constant tantrums and battles matters. The ability to stay calm while their world is crumbling because of a lost lego matters. When they desire a hug or a hand hold, or for you to sit with them for a few minutes, give it to them. Your to-do list will always be there but the opportunities to build connection with your littles will not.  They look to you and watch how you handle disappointment, frustration, and hurt. You are the one that teaches them healthy attachment, and that there is good in the world, but for now, YOU are their world. They are most likely not thanking you, or acknowledging how important you are, but it’s what they feel.

It’s easy to feel unseen in this season of life. You do the dishes, tackle the laundry, color and paint, manage the home, work your job, and often with little-to-no thanks. Remember that the lack of verbal appreciation does not mean they aren’t grateful. Your spouse and kids adore you. Try to remind yourself of that so the resentment doesn’t grow. And most importantly, remember that your heavenly Father sees you. He is with you each and every day. And He is proud of you. He is so thankful that you care for His children with such passion. Because remember, they are ours, but they are His first. 

So give grace to yourself and your family. Grace goes a long way and gives you the freedom to have good days, even when everything seems to go wrong. Discipline your kids with grace. Love yourself with grace when you mess up. Do your best to give grace to others, because your kids are watching.

I know firsthand the temptation to sink into feeling forgotten. But don’t let that rob you of this precious season. It’s a hard, selfless season, but a beautiful one. Don’t let the lack of praise from society in being a mom influence you to believe that you’re not incredible. Your daily work may not be outwardly admired, but it is. You have the hardest job and you matter. Love yourself, just as much as you love your family. I promise that if you love yourself, and see yourself as the Father does, you will come to love the simple moments. Make a conscious effort to not take them for granted. 

You are significant. You are important. Your work matters. 

-Me 

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,”   Colossians 3:23