People often say that motherhood is harder now than it ever has been before, but I don’t think that’s true. Instead it’s just different. Some things are better, some things are worse. A lot will always stay the same.
I feel lucky to be a mom in 2016. Screen time and cyberbullying are tough terrain, but along with the bad has come a lot of good. For example, Daniel Tiger! The shift away from fear-based parenting. Breastfeeding pillows! We are also no longer expected to stay home and make lasagnas if we don’t want to. Despite the daily op-ed pieces on “Mommy Wars,” it is possible to create a fulfilling life without worrying what everyone else thinks.
I’m not saying it comes without serious challenge. But now more than ever, our sons and daughters are seeing their mamas pursue a life of meaning with equal co-parents, supportive friends, and without fear of retribution. That’s some good stuff right there.
Motherhood will always be hard, but the upside is that there is always space for change. We are only as “good” or “bad” as we decide to be. Happy Mother’s Day to the strong women who decide day after day to show up and do their best.
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