The Transformative Power of Motherhood

When I was a young girl I was so unsure of myself. I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up but I knew one thing for sure, I wanted to be a mother. It doesn't sound like I was much of a feminist does it ? I had no idea that when I became a mother how much more of a feminist I would be!

I took on the role of motherhood with a fervor, reading every book possible, studying and preparing for the birth of my first child. Based on what I had read about childbirth in America, I had decided that I was going to have a homebirth (this was back in 1980). Things didn't go as planned so I ended up in a hospital, hooked up to all kinds of monitors with a bag of pit (pitocin) dripping into my arm. It wasn't an ideal birth by any stretch of the imagination but I was awake, alert and an active participant in my son's birth.

The whole experience awakened my ferocious inner mama! When I was pregnant with my second child I was more confident in myself and even more determined to have him at home. This time is worked out beautifully! Both experiences empowered me in ways I never knew possible. I became a strong advocate for breastfeeding and the birth rights of mothers which ultimately led me to forming a nonprofit organization with a friend to advocate, educate and support parents. I finally figured out what I wanted to be when I grew up- a maternal feminist!

I often say that my children have taught me more tha
I have taught them. If I were to offer any advice to parents in light of Mothers Day it would this- Listen with your hearts, be conscious and kind in your actions and interactions with your children. When you know you've blown it with your child keep it real- talk about it, apologize and find ways to re-strengthen the connection like doing something fun together. It's ok if you don't have all the answers- motherhood (and fatherhood) is a learning process that goes on for life (yes even into adulthood, marriage & grandchildren.)

If you feel alone and isolated, seek out friends who share your values to become your "tribe" of support. Last but not least, make time to nurture yourself! If your emotional tank is empty you won't be able to nurture your children.

May you embrace the power of your inner mama and move the world closer toward compassion and peace.

Happy Mothers' Day!

Lysa