My Thoughts on Mom-Shaming

I’m not going to get into specifics but I was mom-shamed the other week and it really left me feeling raw and fragile.  I experienced a range of emotions from embarrassment, frustration, anger, sadness, and indignation.  Thank God for my close friend who lent a compassionate ear and put things into perspective for me.  She reminded me that no, I’m not a terrible mom.  I just had a bad day due to an unfortunate situation.  It doesn’t define me or my son.

So, I’m just going to say this to all my mom readers and those who plan on becoming moms.  Your children will humble you in ways you can never imagine.  There will be moments when you will be mortified and want to crawl under the nearest rock. (Have you all seen that video that went viral this week?  Case in point….although it’s pretty hilarious.)  Remember these moments when you feel inclined to judge other parents.  We are all doing the best we can.  Parenting is the hardest job.  Hands down.  Trying to shape your child’s character is no easy feat.  Raising kind, respectful, responsible, honest, independent, selfless individuals is a tall order but it’s worth all the sleepless nights, those pride sucking moments, the emotional strain, the tears, the laughter, the sloppy hugs, the trips to the ER, a messy house (gulp), the homework, parent teacher conferences, wrapping Christmas gifts at 2 AM, the long road trips, travel baseball, swim meets, Sunday mass, family dinners, and everything in between.  I wouldn’t trade it for the world even though there are days when I want to quit.

Let’s not mom shame.  You don’t know someone’s situation.  Everyone has a story.  Everyone has a struggle.  Let’s practice compassion and kindness.  Instead, forgive and move on.  Give someone the benefit of the doubt and hope someone returns the favor when your child humbles you one day.  Trust me, you’ll be grateful.