Did you know that?
You are. Really.
It may not feel like it sometimes. I don’t feel like it’s true very much. But honestly, the very nature of parenthood means staring the unknown, potentially heart-wrenching future in the face and doing.it.anyway.
For us, brave looks like the start of Kindergarten. My twins got on that big yellow bus for the first time this fall and entered a big new world. It was a huge leap forward for our family (going from four preschoolers to only the 2 littles at my side was just WOW!), and they have thrived in their new environment. But it isn’t always easy. I have learned so much about who they are. I’ve gotten to watch them deal with people, try new things, find out they can do so much more than they ever realized. So much more than I ever realized! I’ve been stumped more than once about how to help them, correct them, encourage them. It’s hard not to compare. But every day, we get up. I make lunches. We attempt to make it to the bus stop on time. We are brave.
My oldest niece is almost in middle school. My brother and sister-in-law are braving the crazy new world of Junior High. How much to hold her back (which is easier). How much freedom to grant as she tries new things (which is much harder). How to answer bigger questions, handle harder tests. They are brave.
The moms I know are dealing with other issues: terminal illnesses, job loss, a major move. They are wondering about car seats and SATs. They are trying to balance life and work and kids and husbands. They are wondering if they are good enough, if they are ruining their children, if something really, really horrible is right around the next corner. They face fears every day. They handle tantrums and crises and broken toys and broken hearts. Every day. Because they are brave.
Yes, you are brave. But for the moments when you aren’t so sure, it’s good to be reminded that you are not alone. Such is the beauty of friendships, of moms groups, of playdates, and of good books. Books like Brave Mom by Sherry Surratt, President of MOPS International and a mom like us. It’s a chapter-by-chapter breakdown of many of the most difficult fears and concerns that everyday moms face every day. She gives helpful, practical advice for dealing with our fears. She reminds us that God has provided answers for our crises and concerns. She includes stories of moms like us, moms who’ve been there and survived. Brave Mom reminds us that we are not alone. It reminds us that we are brave.
Of course, it may not feel that way today. It may feel like you are drowning, neck-deep in something way beyond yourself. But keep your head up, find a mom friend to chat with, go get yourself a coffee, read a book that will encourage you and then…just keep going. Because, you are, indeed, brave.
*I received a free copy of Brave Mom to review.
