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.
Amy Arnold
Mar 16, 2017 @ 14:31:17
Amen! I have had similar thoughts. There is enough self-guilt. We don’t need to heap it on each other. You are doing amazing!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Ashley
Mar 16, 2017 @ 12:32:48
I’m sorry someone made you feel like a bad mom- argh, that is awful, lady. No one is a perfect parent- perfection isn’t real. And take that judgment somewhere else- no one has time for that!
Keep on keepin’ on, babe!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Mónica Sors - Mes Voyages à Paris
Mar 16, 2017 @ 11:28:07
Such a good post, I totally agree! You are a great mom!!!!
xx
Mónica Sors
MES VOYAGES À PARIS
NEW POST: TOUS MEDALLIONS | MIX & MATCH + EMBROIDERED JACKET
Diana
Mar 15, 2017 @ 10:54:08
Totally agree Kate! x
kate dunphy
Mar 16, 2017 @ 10:52:15
Thanks Diana!
CHRISTY SWEENEY
Mar 15, 2017 @ 10:21:56
As a former foster Mom, an adoptive Mom and bio Mom….. I have had some shaming thrown my way. Most of my kiddos have come from places that you cannot fathom. Most have been tossed around from person to person, home to home. Most have challenging behaviors. To those that don’t know it appears as though I am a horrible Mom that is raising her children to be destructive, rude, combative, etc. If they only knew the lengths I have taken to get them to the point they are at. They would see we have come so far……. This experience has humbled me beyond words. I will not judge another Mom, child, etc. Until I know the facts. Even then, judging isn’t my place.
kate dunphy
Mar 16, 2017 @ 10:51:47
Christy, my hat goes off to you because what you’re doing is so selfless and loving. Opening your heart and your home to children in need is so generous and admirable. I’m so glad you shared your experience regarding this topic and I hope after reading this, other moms will think twice before judging someone who is just trying their best everyday. xo
Kitty
Mar 15, 2017 @ 09:37:20
Well said! P.S. You’re a great mom – I see it in every picture of your beautiful and happy children.
kate dunphy
Mar 16, 2017 @ 10:48:05
Thank you so much Kitty! You are too kind! xo