DR. CELESTE CATANIA-OPRIS, PH.D., LMFT
When asked, “How are you?” most moms will offer a similar response. Typical answers are, “I’m okay,” “Tired,” or “It’s been non-stop.” Yet, when you ask mothers how their kids are doing, many will say, “They are getting so big,” “They are great,” or they will compliment their academic or athletic achievements.
Mothers appear to highlight their children’s strengths while not always recognizing or emphasizing their own. Why is that? A potential explanation can be that moms are selfless. Many moms put their children, spouses, and family before themselves. Of course, this can leave a mother feeling “okay,” “tired,” or as if life has been “non-stop,” because moms are commonly putting themselves last in line.
Many mothers sacrifice a piece of themselves for the well-being of their family. These sacrifices may result in lack of sleep, at times feeling like a chauffeur, and having difficulty remembering the last time a peaceful shower was taken. However, all appear to be sacrificed so that children can have a good, happy childhood and then one day be happy, well-adjusted adults.
Ironically, what you may start to notice as a mother is that you too start to feel like a kid again. In a way, you are able to relive your childhood and give your kids the childhood you wished you had. You remember what it feels like to jump in a puddle again. You start to notice the moon, airplanes, and birds in the sky, as your kids will repeatedly and innocently point them out to you. You start believing again that people are inherently good. You begin to see beauty instead of what is wrong with the world. You start noticing and enjoying the little things in life.
There is a reason why most moms will say that being a mom is “one of the greatest feelings in the world.” You can feel alive in a way like you never did before. You feel a different kind of purpose in your life. You know that little eyes are looking up at you and you want to make them proud. You are literally perfection in their eyes because you are “Mom.” You are their go-to, the one who makes them feel safe and secure, and the only mother they would ever want in their lives.
Mother’s Day is a day dedicated to you! This day recognizes all you do all year long. From the never-ending housework, to comforting meltdowns, to simply being a present and loving parent, your attention and time are always needed by your family. Being a mother is a full-time job; one that does not pay monetarily, but in ways that make you feel whole.
Know your worth and know you are worth so much, especially to your children! So put your feet up, grab a glass of wine, and put on your favorite show. Today is your day! Enjoy it because you undoubtedly deserve it.
Celeste Catania-Opris, Ph.D., LMFT, offers therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families. Visit www.TherapyForModernHousewives.com.