the journey to hiraeth

In the whirlwind of motherhood, amidst the endless to-do lists and societal pressures to have it all together, I’ve come to a profound realization – the importance of gentleness. As I navigate this season of life, caring for my little one while carrying another precious life within me, I’ve learned to be gentle not only with my children but also with myself.

There are days when I find myself scrutinizing every unfinished task, berating myself for not meeting arbitrary standards of productivity or cleanliness. The sink may be full, the laundry pile may seem insurmountable, and the car may be showing its age – but in the grand scheme of things, these are trivial compared to the love and care I pour into my children.

In the midst of my self-imposed expectations, I pause to remind myself of what truly matters. My toddler doesn’t measure my worth by the state of the house or the model of our car. What he remembers, what truly shapes his world, is the love and attention I give him each day.

As I reflect on my role as a mother, I realize that gentleness is not only a gift I give to my children but also to myself. It’s in the moments of exhaustion, when every fiber of my being longs for rest, that I extend grace to myself. I acknowledge the incredible feat of nurturing life within me while tending to the needs of my growing family.

Motherhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence. It’s about showing up, day after day, with a heart overflowing with love and compassion. It’s about creating a nurturing environment where my children feel cherished, valued, and seen.

So, while the kitchen may wait and the floors may gather dust, my children will always come first. Their laughter, their tears, their milestones – these are the moments that truly define motherhood. And in embracing gentleness, both with myself and with the ones I care for, I am reminded of the profound beauty of this journey called motherhood.